47. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Social Protection if his Department has considered recruiting more staff as medical assessors to speed up the process of appeals in invalidity, disability, and carers applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46150/26]

Medical Review and Assessment Section of my Department has a proactive recruitment process over the years. The number of Medical Assessors has increased from 34 in 2024 to 37 at this juncture. Arising from the panel of successful candidates from the recruitment drive in Q4 2025, three have joined and have been trained in. Another new Medical Assessor will join the team in Q3 bringing the complement of Medical Assessor to 38.

Currently, 79% of medical opinions for appeal referrals are completed under three weeks.

I hope this clarifies for the Deputy.