Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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There are a number of payments and pensions paid by my Department to people over State Pension Age. Currently, upon reaching age 66, a person may be entitled to either the State Pension (Contributory), the State Pension (Non-Contributory) or the Widow's, Widower's and Surviving Civil Partner's (Contributory) Pension, depending on their contribution record, means and personal circumstance. There are also a range of secondary payments available where applicable, including Household Benefits, Fuel Allowance, the Living Alone Allowance, and the Free Travel Pass. Comprehensive information on all of these are available on the Department's website, from officers and in leaflets available in the Department's Intreo offices, and from Citizens Information Centres and website.

Wider supports to people approaching retirement age and beyond, are the remit of a number of other Government Departments. Recently, the Minister for Health announced a proposal to establish an independent Commission on Care for Older Persons. The Commission is due to be established in January 2024, and will examine the provision of health and social care services and supports for older persons and make recommendations to the government for their strategic development.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.