Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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563. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if she will address a matter regarding a request for information pertaining to a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43470/17]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The budgetary increase to state pension (contributory) payments came into effect on 10 March 2017. The person concerned is in receipt of a reduced rate pension. The weekly increase of €5.00 was payable in full to those in receipt of the maximum rate of state pension contributory), with a proportionate increase paid to all other recipients.

When the person concerned requested a copy of his insurance record from the Department, it was noted that certain additional contributions were not included when the original decision on entitlement was made. The person’s entitlement to state pension (contributory) was reviewed and a higher rate of payment was awarded, with effect from 18 February 2 005. The person concerned was notified in writing of this decision on 18 May 2017 and provided with a copy of the social insurance record on which the decision was based.

The person concerned was also in receipt of an increase for qualified adult on their state pension (contributory) for the period 18 February 2005 to 3 October 2013, the date from which their spouse was awarded a state pension (contributory) in their own right. A review of the person’s entitlement to increase of qualified adult was undertaken as the rate of increase for qualified adult payable is related to the claimant’s rate of pension payment. Details of the qualified adult’s means were requested as increase for qualified adult is a means-tested payment. The information requested has not yet been received by the Department.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.