John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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278. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the status of a carer's allowance application by a person (details supplied) which is now under appeal; and if the matter will be expedited in view of the circumstances. [49370/19]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Carer's allowance (CA) is a means-tested social assistance payment made to a person who is habitually resident in the State and who is providing full-time care and attention to a person who has such a disability that they require that level of care.

Once claims are in payment, the Department periodically reviews them to ensure that there is continued entitlement.  Depending on the circumstances in each case and to make best use of resources, a review may only concentrate on a specific condition of entitlement. 

I am advised that following a review of means, it was determined that the person in respect of whom CA was being paid, was entitled to a lower rate of payment from 8 January 2015 to 12 June 2019, as means from a pension income for his spouse had not been disclosed to my department. As a result it was determined that he had been overpaid €11,578.60 during this period. 

The person concerned was notified on 21 November 2019 of this decision, the reason for it and of his right of review and appeal. A breakdown of the calculation of the debt was enclosed.

To date, no request for an appeal, or further review of the decision has been received by my Department. If the person wishes to pursue an appeal, they should contact the Social Welfare Appeals Office setting out the grounds of their appeal. Alternatively, they can seek a review of the decision if additional relevant information is available. All circumstances outlined to my Department at that time will be considered.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.