Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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192. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the current status of an application for a State pension (non-contributory) for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25465/23]

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 6 April 2023. On 14 April 2023, the case was referred to a Social Welfare Inspector to investigate the means of the person for pension eligibility purposes. The Inspector confirmed that, despite a number of visits to the person’s address, they have been unable to conduct their interview. More recently, the person has contacted the Inspector stating they are spending time at a sick relative's address. The Inspector advises that they will arrange a meeting with the person concerned without delay.

On return of the Inspector's report, a Deciding Officer will make a determination on 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.