Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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90. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if he will address an issue with regards an invalidity pension in respect of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33061/16]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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Invalidity pension (IP) is a payment for people who are permanently incapable of work because of illness or incapacity and who satisfy the pay related social insurance (PRSI) contribution conditions.

The department received a claim for IP for this lady on 1 September 2016. She was refused IP on the grounds that the medical conditions for the scheme were not satisfied. She was notified on 22 September 2016 of this decision, the reasons for it and of her right of review or appeal.

As this lady has appealed the decision to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office (SWAO), a submission has been prepared by the department and was forwarded to the SWAO on the 28 October 2016 for determination. The SWAO will be in touch with her directly in due course in relation to the progress of her appeal.

Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) provides a basic weekly allowance to eligible people. This lady may make an application for SWA through her local community welfare service so that her eligibility may be determined.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.