Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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Question 389: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Meath is entitled to a contributory pension; if not, the options available for this person to pursue with his Department to meet their pension needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14803/08]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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In order to qualify for a State Pension (Contributory) at the minimum rate payable, a yearly average of at least 10 contributions is needed.

The person concerned has a yearly average of 8 contributions which is insufficient for a minimum payment of a State Pension (Contributory).

As she worked for some time in the United States, the insurance records of both countries can be combined to examine possible entitlement to a pro-rata pension. However, this yields a combined yearly average of 9 contributions which is also insufficient to qualify.

An option for her would be to apply for a State Pension (Non Contributory), which is a means-tested payment. Alternatively, if the person is wholly supported and maintained by her spouse, the spouse may apply for an Increase for a Qualified Adult on his pension payment. This increase is subject to a means-test. If awarded, the increase would be paid directly to the person concerned.

If applications are received for both options, and entitlement to each exists, the person concerned will be placed on whichever is the most financially advantageous arrangement.