Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)
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424. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the number of appeals officers assigned to assessing both applications and appeals, respectively, for the State pension (contributory). [31091/23]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The processing of applications for State Pension Contributory (SPC) is a priority of my Department and is monitored on an ongoing basis with particular focus on processing times, to ensure a timely service to applicants.

There are 30 full-time equivalent Deciding Officers assigned to assessing new applications, reviews and appeal activity for State Pension (contributory).

The Social Welfare Appeals Office (SWAO) is the office of my Department responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social protection entitlements. Appeals Officers are independent in their decision-making functions.

The SWAO has advised that there are currently 41 Appeals Officers who make decisions on SPC appeals.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.