Thank you very much. I call Deputy Shanahan.

I note the Comptroller and Auditor General's recent report on the accounts of the public services shows, once again, a worryingly high success rate for social welfare appeals. From approximately 26,000 appeals, some 14,000, or just over 50%, appear to have led to a revised decision. This raises important questions about the fairness, transparency and efficiency of social welfare decision-making. If that decision-making were robust and dependable, one would expect few decisions to be overturned. How many people do not raise an appeal when they should? As the Taoiseach and I both know, as does every other Deputy, past and present, denying a payment can have a huge impact on our most vulnerable people and their dependants. Can there be an improvement in standards of work in the Department of Social Protection?

The turnaround time for appeals in the Department has improved over the most recent period. I have brought to Cabinet a request, as reflected in the social protection legislation I am bringing through at the moment, to allow for the appointment of two more registered officers for appeals purposes. That should help to improve any delays. In fairness, the turnaround time has improved considerably over the past number of months.