Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 570: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the average length of time between oral appeal hearings and when a decision issues; the maximum length of time after an oral hearing before a decision must issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11916/08]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The Social Welfare appeals system is quasi-judicial and the procedures involved are designed to ensure that every appellant gets full and fair consideration. I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that, ordinarily, appellants are sent their decisions in writing within three or four weeks of an oral hearing. In unsuccessful appeals, the Appeals Officers set out the reasons for their decisions.

In a small number of cases, for example complex legal cases where more research is required or cases whether further clarification is requested from the parties to an appeal, it may not be possible to adhere to these time limits. There is no maximum length of time in which a decision must issue.

I am advised that improving processing times of all aspects of the appeals process is a major objective of the Social Welfare Appeals Office. However, it is necessary at all times to ensure that progress in this regard is achieved in a manner which is not in conflict with the demands of natural justice and the requirement that every appeal be fully investigated and examined on all its merits.