152 Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will expedite an appeal for invalidity pension with a view to a successful outcome in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin taking into account both the applicants health condition and the advice received from their local office which recommended the application for invalidity pension; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40349/11]

I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer, having fully considered all the evidence has allowed the appeal of the person concerned. The person concerned has been notified of the decision. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.