Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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104. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the current status of the carer's allowance application for a person (details supplied); when a decision will issue from the appeals office following an oral hearing in January 2024; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25661/24]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an Office of the Department of Social Protection which is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements. Appeals Officers are independent in their decision making functions.

The Appeals Officer dealing with this appeal held an oral hearing in January 2024 at which the appellant attended along with her late husband. A number of documents of a detailed nature were submitted to the Appeals Officer at this hearing.

As was explained and agreed at the oral hearing, a response to the submission at the hearing was requested from the deciding officer. A response was received and further clarification was required.

The Appeals Officer is conscious that some time has elapsed since the oral hearing. However, the Appeals Officer points out that this is a very complex appeal which is taking a considerable amount of time to ensure that all points raised by the customer are appropriately considered and addressed.

It is hoped that a decision on this appeal will be available shortly.I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.