Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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124. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if a decision has been made on an application for a State pension (non-contributory) by a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7710/23]

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, 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.

An application for state pension (non-contributory) was received from the person concerned on 4 January 2023. On 16 January 2023, the case was referred to a Social Welfare Inspector to investigate the means of the person for pension eligibility purposes. The Inspector has contacted the person and arranged an interview for Friday 17 February 2023.

The Inspector has been requested to expedite their completion of the investigation. On return of their report, a Deciding Officer will make a determination on the eligibility of the person concerned for state pension (non-contributory) and the person will be notified of the outcome in writing.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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125. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if a decision has been made on an application for State (pension contributory) by a person details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7711/23]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The person concerned reached pension age on 09 February 2023.

An interim decision has been made and the person concerned has been awarded State Pension (contributory) at the weekly rate of €238.50 from 09 February 2023. This equates to 90% of the current maximum rate of pension. This is the correct rate of pension commensurate with the current social insurance record held by my Department. The person concerned was notified of this decision in writing on 13 February 2023.

As the person concerned was employed with An Post, my Department are confirming the contribution record from this employment. Upon completion of this review, the entitlement of the person concerned to a higher rate will be re-examined and they will be notified in writing of the decision.

Also, if the person concerned considers that they have additional contributions or credits that have not been recorded, it is open to them to forward documentary evidence to my Department and their pension entitlement can be reviewed.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.