Disability Allowance (DA) is a means-tested payment for people with a specified disability who are substantially restricted in undertaking employment. As part of the Department’s responsibility to ensure good governance and the proper use of public funds, periodic reviews are carried out on a sample of claims each year to confirm ongoing entitlement.
A medical review of this individual began in September 2022. Self-assessment and medical forms were provided, returned, and reviewed, with an initial medical opinion in June 2023 that the person no longer met the medical criteria for DA. The person was notified and offered an opportunity to respond in October 2023. No reply was received, leading to a disallowance communication in January 2024, which contained an error on the reason for the termination.
Further evidence was submitted, supporting this claim, in February 2024 and the Department reinstated the DA payment and issued arrears, pending a new medical review.
The Medical Assessor subsequently reviewed all evidence, including the additional medical reports received, and again concluded that the person did not meet the statutory medical conditions for DA.
On 25 July 2024, the person concerned was notified of this finding and was afforded the right of reply. As no further information was received, they were notified on 11 September 2024 that their last payment would be on 25 September 2024. This letter also outlined their right to request a review and/or to appeal the decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.
The person concerned has not sought a review or submitted an appeal.
The Department regrets any confusion or inconvenience caused and remains available to assist the person concerned should they wish to avail of the review or appeal process.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
