Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 990: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding a disability appeal for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; when will this payment be restored to them as they are not fit for work. [28664/06]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
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Payment of disability benefit to the person concerned was discontinued from 28 August 2006 following an examination by a Medical Assessor of the Department who expressed the opinion that he was capable of work. The person's appeal against this decision was received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 29 August 2006.

In the context of the appeal he will be examined by another Medical Assessor on 5 October 2006. He will be notified of the time and venue for the examination when arrangements are completed.

The person is currently in receipt of unemployment assistance pending the resolution of his appeal. Under Social Welfare Legislation decisions in relation to claims must be made by Deciding Officers and Appeals Officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.