Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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1030. To ask the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality to examine an application for a person (details supplied) under the mother and baby payments scheme; the way in which a review of this application can be made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48033/25]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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While I try to be helpful at all times in the parliamentary process, the Deputy will be aware that I cannot be involved in individual cases and cannot comment on same.

The legislation underpinning the Payment Scheme - the Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme Act 2023 - specifically provides for the explicit independence of the Chief Deciding Officer in administering the application process and making decisions on applications. Therefore, it would be inappropriate for me to engage in the process in relation to the status of individual applications. That said, I will try to be helpful in general terms.

All information on the Scheme, and the application process, can be found at the dedicated Payment Scheme website - gov.ie/paymentscheme. Resources include an information booklet, questions and answers, and short 'how to' videos on the straightforward application process. A Helpline is also available at +353 1 522 9992. Applicants will be supported throughout the application process with information and advice as and when they may need it.

If an applicant is dissatisfied with a decision on their application, they can request a review. Requesting a review is a very straightforward process for the applicant but it rightly triggers a very comprehensive assessment of all aspects of the application within the Payment Scheme Office. After a review, if an applicant is dissatisfied with a review decision they may request an appeal. Appeals Officers operate independently outside of the Department. Further information on how to request a review of an application to the Scheme can be found on the Payment Scheme website here:

www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/publications/requesting-a-review-or-an-appeal/

Finally, I would like to advise you that public representatives can contact the Payment Scheme Office via a dedicated email address paymentschemereps@equality.gov.ie if they are assisting constituents in relation to the Scheme.