Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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451. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if cognisance can be taken in the case of a person (details supplied); if the status quo in respect of their payment will be maintained; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25726/23]

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, 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 thereafter, claimants must provide full and up to date details of any income(s), asset(s), savings and investment(s) held and notify the Department of any relevant changes that may affect their pension entitlement.

Following previous representations from the Deputy querying whether the person was in receipt of the correct rate of pension, a review questionnaire was issued to the person on 1 March 2023. The person concerned is required to complete and return a means questionnaire, along with any supporting evidence. As no response was received, two reminder questionnaires have since issued.

On foot of these representations, and the Deciding Officer taking into account the person's personal circumstances, a further period of three months is being afforded to the claimant to return the completed means questionnaire. If the person requires assistance completing their form, the Department can arrange for an Inspector to visit them, or they can attend their local Department's office or Citizens Information Service.

Pending the outcome of their means review, the person's rate of payment will remain unchanged. A letter has issued to the person concerned informing them of this temporary extension arrangement. Failure to reply within the extended timeframe may result in interruption, or loss, of pension payment.

I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.