John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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661. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if the pension entitlements of two persons (details supplied) will be examined to ensure that both are in receipt of their full benefit; and if their contribution history will be provided. [39570/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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State pension (non-contributory) is a means-tested payment for people aged 66 and over, 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.

Earnings from employment, self employment, occupational pensions, and foreign pensions are assessed as means. The value of any property (excluding a person’s own home), savings and investments which a person or their spouse, civil partner or cohabitant holds, are also assessed.

The husband in this case is in receipt of State pension (non-contributory) at the maximum rate weekly of €278.00, together with fuel allowance (payable during the winter season). He is also in receipt of an increase for qualified adult allowance at the maximum weekly rate of €183.60 per week in respect of his spouse. His spouse is also in receipt of half-rate carers allowance and the household benefit package.

I have arranged for copies of their social insurance contribution records to issue.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.