Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

There are two other matters I wish to ask Mr. McKeon about regarding the same subject matter. I quoted from the judgment earlier, which mentioned about if they were to be "... penalised by one arm of the State for conducting its business in accordance with the law as [it was] interpreted and applied by another department of government". Another section states, "Whether that can or cannot be said ... will depend on the facts of the case before the Social Welfare Appeals Office, the specific agreements the subject of that decision and the exact composition of the assessments." When it determines costs, will the Department of Social Protection be invited to make submissions regarding those costs? Is there any factoring in of legal costs in the Department concerning that case? Has the Department made any policy changes yet or does it plan to on foot of that case?