Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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419. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the reason that a State pension (non-contributory) has been reduced for a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47978/22]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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State pension non-contributory is a means-tested payment for people aged 66 and over, legally and habitually residing in the State, who do not qualify for a state pension contributory, or who only qualify for a reduced rate contributory pension based on their social insurance record.  For the purposes of the means-test, at application stage and through the lifetime of a claim, an applicant must provide full and up to date details of any income(s), asset(s), savings and investment(s) held and inform the Department of any relevant changes in their circumstances that may affect their pension entitlement.  

On 16 June 2022, the Department received a request for review of the current weekly rate of state pension non-contributory of the person concerned.  On 21 June 2022, a review questionnaire issued to the person concerned in order that their weekly means could be reviewed.  The completed questionnaire was returned, together with supporting financial documentation.   

Following their assessment, the Deciding Officer determined that the person's means had increased since the previous review and made a revised decision.  The person concerned was notified of the revised decision on 16 August 2022, including details of the revised means assessment.  The person was also informed of their right, if dissatisfied with the decision, to request a review, or to appeal the decision to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office.  There is no record of an appeal received.    

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.