173. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection when a decision will be made on a domiciliary care allowance appeal in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48334/14]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer on 4 November 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.