Written answers

Wednesday, 30 September 2015

Department of Social Protection

Social Welfare Payments Administration

Photo of Bernard DurkanBernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

64. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection the way in which the procedures for examination of applications for social welfare payments can be standardised and streamlined to eliminate any possible delays; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33626/15]

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

One of the main priorities for the Department is to build on achievements already made to integrate services into a new service delivery model and streamline the applications process for all schemes.

Staff in the Department administer over 70 different schemes and services with over 1.44 million people benefitting from weekly payments in respect of almost 2.3 million beneficiaries. This is on top of 607,000 families in receipt of a monthly child benefit payment. This means that our payments and services impact on the lives of almost everybody in the State in one way or another.

The Department is committed to ensuring that claims are processed as expeditiously as possible. I acknowledge that processing times vary across schemes, depending on the differing qualification criteria. Schemes that require a high level of documentary evidence from the customer, particularly in the case of illness-related schemes, can take longer to process. Similarly, means-tested payments can also require more detailed investigation and interaction with the applicant, thereby lengthening the decision making process.

As part of the Department’s service delivery modernisation programme, a range of initiatives aimed at streamlining the processing of claims, supported by modern technology, have been implemented in recent years. Operational processes, procedures and the organisation of work are continually reviewed to ensure that processing capability is maximised.

The new Intreo service integrates employment services and the traditional income support model, providing for a streamlined and personalised service to Jobseekers. Intreo centres have also introduced an integrated decision-making team to further streamline the processes formerly undertaken by former Local Office staff, Social Welfare Inspectors and the Community Welfare Service.

I wish to assure the Deputy that prompt processing of claims remains a priority for the Department. Each scheme area is continuously monitored and processing procedures reviewed to ensure that claims are paid to customers as quickly as possible.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.