Disability benefit and insurance number checks
The Minister said the claimant’s payment was delayed mainly by the transition to RSI numbers, with pay-related benefit still under investigation. Members questioned why the Department could not cross-check old insurance numbers and stressed the hardship caused by the system; the Minister said payees were learning the requirements.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason for the delay in the payment of disability benefit to a person (details supplied) in County Waterford.
Comment on this
The person concerned claimed disability benefit from 6 February, fourth day of incapacity, to 23 February, date of latest certificate received.
The delay in payment was due mainly to the change-over system of insurance numbers to RSI numbers for the purpose of payment of benefit. The question of his entitlement to pay-related benefit is being investigated and payment, if any, due will be made on completion of inquiries.
Comment on this
Why is it not possible to carry on with the old insurance number so that there can be a cross check?
Comment on this
The whole system being operated now is different from the old stamp system. Now the contributions are being deducted with PAYE; the Revenue Commissioners have a computer and we must have something similar in the Department.
Comment on this
: I appreciate the system but I cannot understand, and I want the Minister to explain, why the Department cannot cross check from the old insurance numbers. The Department must realise they are dealing with ordinary people who need those payments and the Department should think more of the people than of the system, which is causing hardship and hunger.