Will the Minister indicate the extent of the medical examination which takes place, whether there is a general examination, a superficial examination or if an examination takes place in all cases where persons have been referred to the medical referee?

The examination is a professional matter for the medical referee in question who will normally have information presented by the person or his GP as to the nature of the incapacity. Deputy O'Connell raised a question about the kind of information that is used at an appeal. I have found that people may not go in particularly well prepared to the medical referee and, on appeal, will ensure that there is fuller documentation on the illnes and win the appeal. There are also letters from the doctors which are very brief, and even getting a more comprehensive letter from the doctor may change the position.

Two medical referees can differ in their opinion. If a second medical referee is called there will obviously be a more comprehensive examination at that stage because the decision is being appealed.