Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
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Question 109: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the extra language or translation resources she will provide to the Social Welfare Appeals Office to overcome interpretation difficulties during oral appeals and in relation to the translation of foreign documentation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18609/08]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The provision of adequate interpretation and document translation services is an important element in delivering a quality service to my Department's customers, particularly in the context of an increasing number of foreign nationals availing of social welfare services.

In relation to social welfare appeals, I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that it arranges for the attendance of interpreters to assist appellants who do not enjoy a sufficient command of English to enable them to adequately put their case at the oral hearing. Similarly, arrangements are made for the translation of foreign documents, especially medical reports, when required for the purpose of an appeal. I am advised that the current level of resources available for those purposes is adequate and that the position is kept under review so as to meet demand as required.