323. Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider providing an exemption to the rent cap in respect of a person (details supplied) in view of the special circumstances of the situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5153/14]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer on 10 January 2014, who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral hearing. 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 in relation to social welfare entitlements.