Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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558. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if an application for a State contributory pension by a person (details supplied) will be reviewed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48686/17]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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A copy of the social insurance record relied upon by the Deciding Officer when making the initial decision was provided to the person concerned on 10 April 217. The person was asked to check that this record was in order and to notify the Department of any discrepancy.

Following a review of the person’s state pension (contributory), it was noticed that not all of the person’s social insurance contributions had been included in the initial pension eligibility calculation. The person’s social insurance record has been updated and a revised decision has been made awarding an increased rate of pension, effective from 2 May 2017, the person’s original date of pension award. The person concerned has been notified of this decision on 20 November and arrears have issued.

Additionally, the person’s employment record for the period 2002 to 2013 is being investigated by my Department’s Scope section. Scope section has written to the person’s previous employer on 28 September 2017 and a reminder issued on 15 November 2017. Once Scope section makes a decision on the insurability, or otherwise, of the queried period(s) of employment, the person’s pension entitlement will be reviewed. The person concerned will be notified of the outcome of that review, in writing, without delay.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.