Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 May 2024
185. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the basis on which payment has been refused in respect of carer’s allowance in respect of a person (details supplied); if her case can be fully and independently examined without reference to previous decisions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20123/24]
View answerCarer's Allowance is a means-tested social assistance payment made to a person who is habitually resident in the State and who is providing full-time care and attention to a child or an adult who has such a disability that as a result they require that level of care.
On 13 June 2023, the person concerned was notified that they had no entitlement to Carer's Allowance. As the person had failed to supply such certificates, documents, information, or evidence that was requested, it was not possible for the Social Welfare Inspector to determine if all the necessary conditions for receipt of the allowance were being met. The person concerned was notified of their right to review/appeal and they appealed this decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office (SWAO).
The SWAO notified the person concerned by way of a letter dated 22 April 2024 that their appeal was disallowed.
A decision of an Appeals Officer (AO) may be revised by an AO in the light of new facts or new evidence brought to attention or if there has been a relevant change of circumstances since the decision was given.
A decision of an AO may also be revised by the Chief Appeals Officer if it appears to them that the decision was erroneous by reason of a mistake as to the facts or the law.
In either case, the person concerned should submit a written statement of the grounds on which a review of the decision is sought and include any new evidence that was not previously considered.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
