Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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279. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if a decision has been made on a partial capacity benefit application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2537/17]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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Partial Capacity Benefit (PCB) is a Social Welfare scheme which allows a person, who may not have full capacity for work, return to employment and continue to receive a payment from my Department. A person who applies for PCB will, in the first instance, be assessed by a medical assessor who will assess the restriction on their capacity for work.

The PCB application in respect of the person concerned has been received in my Department and has been referred for assessment to the Medical Advisor (MA) who has been asked to expedite this case. When the MA's opinion has been received, the matter will be considered further and the person concerned notified of the position.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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280. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if a decision has been made on a farm assist appeal in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2565/17]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who has decided to hold an oral hearing in this case on 8 February 2017. The person concerned has been notified of the arrangements for the hearing.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy. If you require any further assistance with this case please do not hesitate to contact Philip in my office.