Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

398. To ask the Minister for Social Protection in relation to an application (details supplied) the criteria on which medical evidence was assessed on both occasions in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon; the way they could come to different conclusions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24923/13]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

427. To ask the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will be made on an invalidity pension in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon; the reason for the delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24047/13]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 398 and 427 together.

Invalidity pension is a payment for people who are permanently incapable of work because of illness or incapacity and who satisfy the contribution conditions.

Medical assessments and medical reviews of eligibility for social welfare schemes are undertaken by fully qualified medical practitioners who have experience and specialist training/qualifications in occupational medicine as well as in human disability evaluation. Assessments of eligibility are based on medical reports and other evidence furnished by the applicant and the applicant's treating physician. The assessment is made in accordance with the Department's evidence-based medical guidelines and protocols. Applicants who are not satisfied with a given decision have the right to request a review of that decision by a deciding officer or of appeal to the independent social welfare appeals office.

The person concerned originally applied for invalidity pension on 27 February 2012. The claim was awarded up to 2 May 2012, when the person in question claimed jobseeker’s benefit and, subsequently, commenced a FETAC course.

On 15 April 2013 this department received a claim for invalidity pension from the person concerned, with a request for consideration of backdating to 21 January 2013 – the date on which he ceased participation on the FETAC citing medical reasons. The evidence provided by the claimant in support of his claim was examined by a medical assessor who was of the opinion that the person concerned is not eligible for invalidity pension as he does not satisfy the medical conditions. A deciding officer disallowed the claim and the person concerned was notified of this decision and the reason(s) for it on 20 May 2013 and of his right to a review of the decision or to appeal to the social welfare appeals office.

All of the relevant evidence in this case has been submitted to another medical assessor for further review and the outcome is expected shortly. Upon receipt of the opinion of the medical assessor, a deciding officer will decide whether a revised decision to award the pension is warranted and the person in question will be notified directly of the result.