Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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569. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if she will review the manner in which investigations into overpayments are carried out to ensure strict adherence to due process and natural justice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8803/18]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Overpayments of social welfare assistance and benefit payments arise as a consequence of decisions made under the relevant sections of the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act, 2005. As part of the process of finalising a decision and assessing an overpayment, the deciding officer or designated person (in the case of the administration of payments under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance provisions), is required to engage with the person concerned and offer them the opportunity to provide additional information in support of their claim. In addition, the customer may seek a review or an appeal any decision to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office.

I am satisfied that the current processes meet the needs of members of the public and the administration of the social welfare system and do not currently have plans to change them.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.