Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

184. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the status of an appeal by a person (details supplied) for disability allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24845/17]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an oral hearing of the appeal of the person concerned took place on 6thDecember 2016. However the Oral Hearing was adjourned as all parties wished to submit more documents in support of the appeal.

I understand that a Freedom of Information request has been submitted by the person concerned and a response is currently being prepared. As soon as the response has issued a further oral hearing will be scheduled as quickly as possible and the person concerned will be informed when arrangements for the oral hearing have been completed.

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.