Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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483. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if a decision has been made on an application by a person (details supplied) in County Kerry for a State pension (contributory); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17371/20]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The person concerned reached pension age on 30 June 2020. According to the records of my Department, they have a total of 1,940 qualifying paid and credited Irish contributions which equates to a yearly average of 41 contributions. This gives an entitlement to a standard State pension (contributory) at 98% of the maximum rate. They are also eligible for fuel allowance (payable during winter months), living alone increase and telephone support allowance. They were notified in writing of this decision and arrears due on 16 July 2020.

Since the person concerned has had periods of employment in the UK, Belgium and the Netherlands, their pension entitlement to a pro rata State pension (contributory) is under investigation, based on a combination of their Irish insurance record with their insurance records in other countries. Upon receipt of the relevant information from the UK, Belgian and Dutch pension authorities, the person’s pension entitlement will be reviewed and they will be notified in writing of the outcome.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.