Department signals moves to change welfare appeals system

The Secretary general of the Department of Social Protection, John McKeon, told an Oireachtas Committee that less than 1% of Deciding Officer decisions are appealed, and of those just under half are upheld. File photo: Gareth Chaney/Collins

The Department of Social Protection has said it is reviewing aspects of the welfare appeals process, including seeking a medical opinion in relation to cases where new medical information is brought forward.

The Secretary general of the department, John McKeon, told an Oireachtas Committee that less than 1% of Deciding Officer decisions are appealed, and of those just under half are upheld.