James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Social Protection if she will review a reduction in a state non-contributory pension in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Longford on the grounds that their means are not as specified by the Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13425/13]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The customer is in receipt of a State pension non-contributory which is a means-tested payment. In line with scheme requirements, a claimant’s means are reviewed from time to time to ensure that their circumstances have not changed and that they continue to have legitimate entitlement.

A review was carried out in late 2012 of this customer’s entitlement. The means derived from the net yearly value of this customer’s income from her farm in Killoe, Co. Longford resulted in a reduction in her rate of pension. In assessing the value of capital, the first €20,000 of capital is disregarded. Therefore, the monies held jointly with her daughter had no effect on the assessment of her means. The customer was notified in writing of the decision to reduce her pension and of her right to appeal this decision.