Holly Cairns (Cork South-West, Social Democrats)
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566. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection for an updated timeline on the progress of the Social Welfare (Bereaved Partner's Pension) Bill 2025. [33726/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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Under the law as currently enacted, entitlement to a Widows, Widowers or Surviving Civil Partner’s Contributory pension is only available to a surviving partner who was party to a marriage or civil partnership.

On 22nd January 2024, the Supreme Court delivered its judgment on the entitlement of an unmarried cohabitant to a Widower's Contributory Pension. The Supreme Court judgment overruled a previous High Court decision and found in favour of the claimant and his children.

Following Government approval, the Social Welfare (Bereaved Partner's Pension) Bill 2025 was published on 13th March and Second Stage concluded in Dáil Eireann on 27th March. The Bill is scheduled for Dáil Select Committee Stage on 25 June. I look forward to working with the Oireachtas in ensuring this important legislation is enacted as soon as possible.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.