Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent)
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508. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection when an application will be processed for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4016/21]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The person concerned reached pension age on 12 April 2020. They applied for State pension (contributory) on 7 April 2020. According to the records of my Department, they have a contribution record of 364 paid full-rate social insurance contributions. As these contributions fall short of the required 520 paid full-rate contributions, they do not qualify for standard State pension (contributory).

Since the person concerned was employed in the public sector for the tax years from 1974/75 to 1989/90, during which period modified contributions were payable, their entitlement to a mixed insurance pro rata State pension (contributory) was also determined, based on their combined modified and full-rate social insurance records. They qualify for a reduced rate (45.1%) of State pension (contributory).

The person concerned is currently in receipt of the maximum rate of Carer’s Allowance. State pension (contributory) and Carer’s Allowance can be paid concurrently where the qualifying conditions for both schemes are satisfied. Where an applicant qualifies for both schemes, the applicant’s entitlement to carer’s allowance is paid at half the weekly rate.

However, in this person’s case, they are financially better off to remain on the full weekly rate of Carer’s Allowance, rather than being awarded their State pension (contributory) entitlement with half-rate Carer’s Allowance. They were notified in writing of the pension decision on 5 January 2021 and provided with a copy of their social insurance record on which the decision was based.

If the person’s circumstances change, they should notify my Department and their pension claim will be reviewed. Additionally, if they consider that they have additional contributions or credits that have not been recorded, they should forward documentary evidence to my Department and their pension entitlement will be reviewed.

The person concerned may wish to consider applying for State pension (non-contributory). This is a means-tested, residency-based payment for people of pension age. Social welfare legislation provides that the means test takes account of the income and assets of the applicant (and spouse/civil partner/cohabitant as applicable). Income and assets include income from employment, self-employment, occupational pensions, maintenance payments as well as property owned (other than the family home) and capital such as savings, shares and other investments.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.