Marie Moloney (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise the issue of an unusual situation that has developed in the family income supplement section in the Department of Social Protection. People who applied for family income supplement last June or July are in a backlog queuing system waiting for their applications to be processed. However, if one applies today or within the next two weeks, one will be dealt with immediately and the family income supplement will be processed straight away. This just does not make sense. I have been in touch with the Department which has informed me it has two different sections, one to deal with the backlog and one to deal with new applications. It does not make sense that those waiting for months will have to wait until the new year to have their application processed. I know the lead-up to the budget is a busy time but I hope she could find time to attend the House to have this matter rectified. Those who are waiting the longest for their applications should be dealt with first. Will the Leader put this to the Minister for Social Protection as soon as possible?