Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Fine Gael)
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1582. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the status of a pension appeal by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54549/17]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that in appeals for State Pension (Contributory), where it appears that the reason for the Deciding Officer’s decision may not have been fully understood, the letter of appeal is referred to the State Pension (Contributory) Section requesting that the decision be clarified to the person concerned.

In the case of the person concerned I understand that a letter clarifying the Deciding Officer’s decision was issued on 09^thJanuary 2018. If, following receipt of the clarification the person concerned is still not satisfied with the Department’s decision, they should confirm this in writing to the Social Welfare Appeals Office stating clearly their complete and up to date grounds of appeal. On receipt of this an appeal will be formally registered and processed.

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 on social welfare entitlements.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.