Ms Mary Higgins:

We were asked to clarify what the time standards relate to. This is a very interesting question. We have time standards for the beginning of the application process and the end of the application process, but we do not have any for the middle. I think this was what the Minister was referring to in the Dáil last week. The reason we do not have them is that it was completely unpredictable and there was no point having a time standard we would not be able to meet. For the time standards regarding response to the first stage of the applications and verification of eligibility, we undertake to turn those around within ten working days. In over 90% of cases we are compliant. At the other end after a decision has been made on a payment, we try to get the cheques out within 20 working days and we do that most of the time. It is not has high as 90%, but it is certainly over 80%.