Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
39. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Social Protection the steps being taken to address delays and barriers experienced by applicants for social protection and disability-related payments in Dublin Bay North, including waiting times for decisions and appeals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2678/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraDisability Allowance (DA) is a weekly payment for people aged 16 to 66 with a disability expected to last at least one year, subject to medical, means, and habitual residence conditions.
My Department is committed to providing an efficient and fair service to all customers and to processing applications as quickly as possible. Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the scheme, particularly where medical evidence and means assessments are required.
In respect of DA, evidence must be provided in respect of the person’s medical condition, the extent to which it restricts them from taking up employment, their means and their habitual residency.
The average number of weeks to award a Disability Allowance claim is currently 6 week, exceeding the processing target for DA to award 80% of applications within 10 weeks.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office is responsible for determining appeals on decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements. The average processing time for DA Appeals is 19 weeks.
My Department understands the many pressures faced by people and always seeks to ensure that claims are processed efficiently. If the Deputy has a particular case in mind, the details can be provided to the Department for examination.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
