Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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291. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the status of an application by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23376/16]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Carer's allowance (CA) is in payment to the person concerned since 16 June 2005 in respect of one care recipient.

I confirm that my department received an application for CA on 11 March 2016 from the person concerned in respect of a second care recipient. The application was referred to a local social welfare investigative officer (SWI) on 22 June 2016 to assess the level of care being provided, assess means and confirm that all the conditions for receipt of CA are satisfied.

Once the SWI has reported, a decision will be made and the person concerned will be notified directly of the outcome

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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292. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the status of an application by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23377/16]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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I confirm that my department received an application for carer's allowance (CA) from the person concerned on 21 June 2016. Unfortunately, there are currently delays in the processing of new applications. Additional resources have been provided to the CA section in order to improve the waiting times for new applications and they are working hard to make this happen.

Frequently, delays are outside the control of the Department and are caused by the customer failing to fully complete the claim form or failing to attach the supporting documentation that is requested on the application form.

This application will be processed as quickly as possible and the person concerned will be notified directly of the outcome. In the meantime the person concerned is in receipt of a weekly social welfare support.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.