97. Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection the status of an appeal under the carer's allowance scheme by a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2880/16]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who has decided to hold an oral hearing in this case on 10th February 2016. The person concerned has been notified of the arrangements for the 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.