Written answers

Thursday, 19 September 2019

Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection

State Pension (Contributory) Eligibility

Photo of Bernard DurkanBernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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246. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the pension entitlement of a person (details supplied); if a bilateral or other pension arrangement exists between Ireland and Lithuania which may address the issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38213/19]

Photo of Regina DohertyRegina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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It is understood that the pensioner in question fell seriously ill while visiting her daughter who is residing in Ireland and that she now requires full-time care and attention.  Her daughter, who is providing full-time care and attention, initially qualified for Carer’s Benefit in June 2017 and following completion of the period of entitlement to that benefit, has qualified for Carer’s Allowance with effect from 6 June 2019.

It is not clear from the details provided whether the pensioner had been in receipt of a social security pension from the Lithuanian authorities at the time she came to Ireland.  If she is entitled to a contributory social security pension from the Lithuanian authorities, then this pension can be exported to Ireland in accordance to the EU rules on the coordination of social security systems.  However, if the person concerned was getting a non-contributory or means-tested social security pension from the Lithuanian authorities, this pension may not be exportable under the EU rules.  Instead, it would be subject to the national Lithuanian rules relating to the payment of such pensions while the person is abroad. 

If the pensioner in question has no other income or pension, she should apply for State Pension (Non-Contributory) while she continues to be resident in Ireland.  This pension is subject to a means-test.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

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