Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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696. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if an application for a State pension (contributory) by a person (details supplied) will be reviewed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53713/17]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The person concerned was awarded a mixed rate insurance pro rata state pension (contributory) from 2 May 2017, their 66th birthday. Written notification of this decision issued on 10 April 2017.

Following a requested review of the person’s pension entitlement, it was ascertained that all of the person’s social insurance contributions had not been included in the initial pension calculation. The person’s social insurance record has since been updated on the basis of information now available to my Department. A revised decision has been made, awarding an increased rate of state pension (contributory), effective from 2 May 2017, the person’s original date of pension award. The person concerned has been notified in writing of this decision on 20 November 2017, together with details of arrears due.

Additionally, my Department is investigating the person’s employment record for the period 2002 to 2013. The Department wrote to the person’s previous employer on 28 September 2017 and a reminder issued on 15 November 2017. A reply has not been received to date.

Once the Department decides 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 in writing of the outcome of that review without delay.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.