Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

580. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the status of the invalidity pension for the self-employed (details supplied) as announced in budget 2017; when the legislation for same will be enacted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30067/17]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In line with the commitment contained in the Programme for Government for an improved PRSI scheme for the self-employed, Budget 2017 provided for the extension of cover for Invalidity Pension to the self-employed on the same basis as employees, with effect from December 2017. Legislation for this measure has already been enacted through the Social Welfare Act, 2016. Commencement of the relevant section of this act is intended to take place in the near future, thereby allowing self-employed workers to be eligible for invalidity pension from December 2017.

Details for self-employed persons including the person concerned of how to apply will be made public by my Department before then.

This is a major reform as, for the first time, self-employed people will have access to the safety net of State income supports, without having to go through a means test, if they become permanently incapable of work as a result of an illness or disability. It is estimated that approximately 1,400 self-employed persons will qualify for invalidity pension in December 2017.

I hope this clarifies the issue for the deputy.