Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North-West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

1161. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection to arrange for a review of the pension entitlement of a person (details supplied). [58031/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The person concerned reached pension age on 24 March 2010. An application for State pension (contributory) was received on 20 January 2011.

The person concerned had a yearly average of 11 contributions, which gave entitlement to 50% of the maximum rate of pension. An award letter issued on 8 February 2011.

A review has now been completed and our records show that the person concerned paid additional self employment contributions in June 2013. As these additional contributions were paid subsequent to the claimant reaching the age of 66 and the award of their pension, they did not come to the attention of the Department. Their inclusion has increased the person's yearly average to 18 which gives entitlement to 75% of the maximum rate of contributory pension or €227.00 (including the €10 over 80 allowance) per week currently.

A revised decision letter and notification of arrears due have issued to the person concerned. The increased rate of payment will be made with effect from 31 October, together with arrears due from 7 June 2013.

It is open to the person concerned to apply for the State Pension (non-contributory) which is a means-tested, residency-based payment for people of pension age. The maximum personal weekly rate is €278.00 which is approximately 95% of the maximum rate of contributory pension. It is also open to the person concerned to apply for the Fuel Allowance.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.