Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour)
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91. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if it is possible for someone in receipt of the automatic extra €10 for being over 80 to give up that extra payment and the procedure in doing same as they find the extra payment puts them over certain income limits; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48498/13]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The over 80 allowance of €10 per week is automatically paid to recipients of State pension on attaining 80 years of age. The enabling legislation provides for this automatic payment. There is no scope to opt in or out of the increase in question.

All social welfare means-tested payments are provided to those with specific support needs. It would not be appropriate for those with higher incomes to re-arrange their financial affairs in order to benefit from schemes that are targeted at those most in need.