Brian Ó Domhnaill (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister for his response, although it does not provide me with a date for the appeal. I cannot speak to my constituent and reassure him in any manner because of that. I appreciate that the social welfare appeals office is separate from the Department and must be for obvious reasons. Notwithstanding this, it is important that this independent office be in a position to operate in a more efficient manner. I do not question the efficiency of the staff but if additional resources on top of what has been provided is required, the matter should be considered. I hope an oral hearing for this case will be held as quickly as possible because I fear for this gentleman's safety as well as his mental and physical health.