Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 140: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the way in which his Department officials assessed the value of a house (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of its condition and location, during a means assessment for a person. [32342/05]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
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In the course of the means investigation, the person concerned was asked to provide valuation of a house, not his place of residence, which is owned by him. As this information was not received, the social welfare inspector estimated the value of the property at €100,000. This valuation may be revised on receipt of an appropriate valuation from the person concerned. In the meantime, he may appeal this decision and a form for this purpose was issued to him on 20 October 2005 which has not been returned.

Under social welfare legislation, decisions in regard to claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in making such decisions.