Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 62: To ask the Minister for Social Protection when an appeal in respect of a person (details supplied) will be decided; the steps taken, additional to those taken by the previous Government, to expedite appeals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7160/11]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in this case. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made.

The Department has made 9 additional appointments to the office in recent weeks in an effort to better manage the current caseload. I am assured by the Chief Appeals Officer that she is keeping current processes under continuous review with a view to achieving a more effective throughput of appeals, while ensuring that any progress does not conflict with due process in terms of the rights of appellants and adherence to the requirements of natural justice.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.