Pearse Doherty (Donegal South West, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 345: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) in County Donegal is still waiting for their appeal decision even though it was first registered in July 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40795/11]

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

I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer having fully considered all the available evidence disallowed the appeal of the person concerned by way of a summary decision. Under Social Welfare legislation, the decision of the Appeals Officer is final and conclusive and may only be reviewed by the Appeals Officer in the light of new evidence or new facts. Following the submission of additional evidence the Appeals Officer has agreed to review the case. The person concerned will be contacted when the review of his appeal has been finalised. 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.