Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 April 2023
945. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will provide an update on the contributory pension appeal by a person (details supplied); and if an oral hearing can be arranged. [18025/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered on 7 December 2022. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. Those papers were received in the Appeals Office on 2 March 2023 and the case was referred to an Appeals Officer on 6 April 2023, which will make a summary decision on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if necessary, hold an oral hearing.
The request for an oral hearing has been notified to the Appeals Officer assigned to the case, however it should be noted that the regulations governing appeals provide that it is a matter for the Appeals Officer to decide whether an oral hearing is required or if an appeal can be decided by way of summary decision.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
