Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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173. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if a decision has been made on a State pension (contributory) backdating appeal by a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28482/21]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The person concerned reached pension age on 18 February 2019. Their application for State Pension (contributory) was received by my Department on 9 September 2020.

In line with social welfare legislation, the person was awarded State pension (contributory) at 94.2% of the maximum weekly rate, backdated to 10 March 2020, six months from date of receipt of their pension application. They were notified in writing of this decision on 28 September 2020 and arrears due were paid.

Backdating of a late claim beyond six months may be considered in circumstances where the delay in making a claim arose either due to incorrect information provided by an officer of my Department or due to the person being so incapacitated that they were unable to make a claim, or appoint a person to act on their behalf.

The person concerned submitted documentary evidence of ill health, which was referred to the Medical Review and Assessment Section for consideration. It was concluded on 17 December 2020 that further backdating was not applicable based on the medical evidence provided. The person concerned was notified in writing of the outcome on 26 January 2021.

An appeal on behalf of the person concerned was received on 4 February 2021. My Department’s submission on the case was forwarded to the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 10 March 2021. On completion of the appeal process, the person will be notified of the outcome in writing.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.