Brendan Ryan (Dublin North, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Yes. Those in receipt of the benefit, who in many cases continue to be certified by departmental medical practitioners, have been advised that at the end of the two-year period they should consider applying for the invalidity pension. Receipt of the latter payment depends on whether one is likely to be ill for over a year or is permanently incapable of work. These are the conditions of the scheme. However, applicants are told their applications are refused because it is considered that they are not permanently incapable of work. Reference is not made at all to whether one is likely to be ill for a year or more. Could the Minister comment on this? Of those who apply for the invalidity pension when their illness benefit payments end, what percentage are refused?