Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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301. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection further to Parliamentary Question No. 53 of 20 February 2024, to provide an update on the long-term carers’ contribution scheme; the number of applications received to date; the number approved; the number rejected; the number pending; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20174/24]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Long-Term Carers Contributions make it easier for a carer to qualify for the State Pension Contributory. Any period in which a carer is registered as providing full time care to an incapacitated person can be included in their social insurance (PRSI) record. Once a carer has reached a minimum of 1040 weeks (20 years) of Long-Term Carers Contributions, these contributions will be included in the calculation for their State Pension Contributory.

The quickest way to apply for any Pension Carers Supports is online at www.MyWelfare.ie The customer must have a verified MyGov account to use MyWelfare.ie. If a customer is unable to complete the online application process, they can contact the Department directly via telephone or email and an application form will be issued to them.

Please see the table below which has the number of applications received to date; the number approved; the number rejected; and the number pending.

I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy