Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire. Even at this stage I have received correspondence from people approaching 66 years of age next year. We know that in normal circumstances, people approaching pension age have to apply for the payment three months before turning 66 years of age. I recently spoke to a gentleman who is turning 66 next April and who has been told he cannot apply for the State pension because the legislation has not been sorted out yet. There seem to be difficulties for a number of people and they are unsure of what is actually happening.

I appreciate that the legislation will come before the Dáil before the end of the year. Can the Minister give further clarity on when that will happen? Will it happen after the budget? The Minister referenced the membership of the commission on pensions. Can she give more detail about that membership and with whom she is consulting on that issue?

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