David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 218: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he intends to honour the commitment to introduce a personal pension entitlement for pensioner spouses currently in receipt of the qualified adult allowance, set at the level of a full non-contributory pension as stated in the Agreed Programme for Government in 2002; if so, when he intends to do so; the estimated cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18857/06]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

This Government is committed to introducing a personal entitlement for pensioner spouses currently in receipt of the qualified adult increase, set at the level of a full non-contributory pension and that remains the position.

The cost, based on current rates of payment, of bringing all of the relevant qualified adult rates up to the level of the non contributory pension personal rate is almost €55 million in a full year. This commitment will be implemented having regard to available resources and other budgetary commitments.

Since 2002, new pension claimants can opt to have qualified adult increase paid directly to their spouse or partner. This measure has had some success in delivering personal payments for spouses and partners. The administrative and legislative implications of enhancing these arrangements to make direct payments more widely available are under consideration