Social welfare claimants whose applications for benefits have been turned down are facing “unacceptable delays” of several months in having the decision appealed, the Department of Social Protection has admitted.

People appealing the loss of social welfare payments can be waiting over nine months for a decision on their case.

THERE are almost 22,000 appeals currently being processed by the social welfare appeals office – a figure which is expected to reach 35,000 by the end of the year.

AN international study has shown the removal of the breast is unnecessary in the treatment of cancer.