Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)

At a conservative estimate the delays in processing social welfare appeals is probably costing the State approximately €10 million per year. What is the Minister going to do about that? He told us he will take on part-time retired social welfare appeals officers, which amounts to three additional staff in the office. Why is the Minister not making the case to the Minister for Finance that recruiting more staff for the appeals office would result in savings to the State? These delays are costing the State dearly. Why does the Minister not present a business case to the Minister for Finance and let him know that by recruiting the additional staff that are necessary he will be saving the State money?

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