David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 128: To ask the Minister for Finance further to the new non-contributory pension for the over 66 year olds which is due to be introduced in September 2006 and the €100 earnings disregard, if he intends to allow persons who are in receipt of contributory pensions a similar earnings disregard if they take up or continue work, before their pensions are subject to taxation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6294/06]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I have no plans to introduce an income disregard for income tax purposes as proposed by the Deputy. The €100 disregard referred to by the Deputy does not relate to taxation. It is a general principle in the tax code that, as far as possible, income from all sources should be subject to taxation. In line with this principle, the majority of social welfare payments, including contributory and non-contributory old age pensions, are reckonable as income for tax purposes.

In budget 2006, I increased the contributory pension for those aged 66 or over to €193.30 per week for a single person and €342.60 per week for a person with a qualified adult who is aged 66 or over. Income generated through the take-up or continuance of work will be reckonable for taxation in addition to the income received through the contributory pension. However, I should point out that those aged 65 or over, including those in receipt of a contributory social welfare pension, are already treated more favourably under the tax code than the generality of taxpayers. This is the case irrespective of whether they are taxed under the normal system of tax credits and bands or the age exemption limits.

John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 129: To ask the Minister for Finance, further to Question No. 385 of 18 October 2005, when a decision will be made and the stamp duty refunded to a person as the amended deed has been lodged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6075/06]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, in the case referred to by the Deputy, stamp duty has been refunded and a cheque for the amount due issued on 13 January 2006, in favour of the person's solicitors.