Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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263. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if homemaker credits will be taken into account when calculating entitlement to a benefit for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25753/19]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The purpose of the Homemaking Scheme is to make it easier for a homemaker who takes time out of the work force to qualify for a State Pension (Contributory). A full contribution year spent as a homemaker may be disregarded in the calculation of the yearly average for State Pension (Contributory). The Homemakers Scheme is only reckonable for State Pension (Contributory) purposes and does not entitle a person to any other benefits.

A claim for maternity benefit was received from the person concerned and was disallowed as the claimant does not satisfy the insurance conditions.

Maternity Benefit is paid to a person who takes maternity leave from work and has the required number of paid PRSI contributions/credits on their social insurance record. The three most recent complete calendar years are considered along with the current year. According to the record held in the Department, the person concerned does not have sufficient PRSI contributions/credits in these years to qualify for the benefit.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.