Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

This section deals with self-employed people who reach the age of 66 and declare additional income that changes the number of contributions on their record. This may result in a higher rate of a State pension contribution. Previously, lump sum payments were backdated to the age of 66. I understand this section eliminates that back payment, which is grossly unfair. How many people will this affect? How much does the Department expect to save? Does the Minister think it is fair? Self-employed people are discriminated against in the social welfare system. They do not receive the same benefits as people in the other sector who receive dole and social welfare payments. This seems grossly unfair and I will oppose the section.