John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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247. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if the adult dependent rate will be applied to the State pension (contributory) in the name of a person (details supplied). [53361/17]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The person concerned was awarded maximum personal rate of state pension (contributory) from 18 February 2017, their 66th birthday. An increase for qualified adult was not awarded at that time as the person’s spouse was in receipt of a social welfare payment at a higher rate in their own right. Written notification of these decisions issued to the claimant on 17 January 2017.

The person concerned re-applied for an increase for qualified adult in respect of their spouse on 11 October 2017, as their spouse who had returned to work had ceased employment. An increase was awarded with effect from 7 October 2017, the day following cessation of their spouse’s employment. The rate of increase awarded is the maximum rate for a qualified adult under age 66, with nil means assessed against them. Written notification of this decision was issued on 8 December 2017. Arrears of increase of qualified adult payment due have been paid.

It is noted that the spouse of the person concerned was in receipt of a social welfare payment in their own right at a higher rate until 2 September 2017, after which they resumed employment until 6 October 2017. If the claimant wishes to submit details of their spouse’s earnings from 3 September to 6 October 2017, entitlement to an increase for that period can be examined.

Due to a change in circumstances, the person concerned may now be eligible for fuel allowance, which is a means tested payment. An application form has issued to the person concerned for completion.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.