Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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An individual must have 520 full-rate paid contributions in order to qualify for standard State Pension (contributory).

On assessing entitlement to pension, factors such as an individual’s social insurance record, their attachment to the workforce, and their countries of employment affect the rate of pension. It is advisable that all contributors maintain their social insurance record as fully as possible over their working life with paid contributions or, if this is not possible, with PRSI credits. Alternatively, a person who ceases to be covered by compulsory PRSI may opt to become a voluntary contributor provided certain conditions are satisfied.

The person concerned will reach 66 years of age in 2025. According to the records of my Department, their first recorded self-employed contribution was in 2018. I have arranged for a copy of their social insurance record to issue along with a detailed explanatory to assist in understanding their record, and information on how to calculate entitlement to State pension (contributory). Information was also included on pension changes to be introduced from January 2024.

As part of those changes, I am introducing a flexible pension system in Ireland. Under this new system, people will still be able to retire at 66 and draw-down their pension in exactly the same way as they can today. In addition, there will be new flexibility so that people can choose to defer their pension, work longer and receive a higher pension payment. The person concerned can decide for themselves what best suits their needs and circumstances.

Further information in relation to State pension (contributory) is available on the Government website at gov.ie/pensions.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.