Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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303. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if he is satisfied that waiting periods for persons seeking the lone parent benefit are satisfactory; and his views on whether a review of the waiting period is needed (details supplied). [28625/16]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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The average processing time for One-Parent Family claims awarded in August was 5 weeks. This compares with 7 weeks in August 2015. The target for the scheme is that 90% of claims are awarded within 10 weeks. The One-Parent Family scheme is a means-tested payment and can also require more detailed investigation and interaction with the applicant, thereby lengthening the decision-making process.

My Department is committed to ensuring that claims are processed as expeditiously as possible. Operational processes, procedures and the organisation of work are continually reviewed to ensure that processing capability is maximised.

In addition, the staffing needs of my Department are regularly reviewed, having regard to workloads and the competing demands arising, to ensure that the best use is made of all available resources.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.