asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether he will state the reason why the appeal of James Carron, Carrowdoan P.O., Rathmullen, County Donegal, to have his old age pension of 4/- per week increased, has been rejected.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Donegal Old Age Pension.
An appeal was received from the pensioner in this case on the 13th August last arising out of his application to the Milford Pension Sub-Committee for an increase of his old age pension of 4/- a week. The Sub-Committee had disallowed the application. The pensioner's means were estimated for old age pension purposes at 12/- a week, and, having regard to the evidence, that estimate seemed reasonable. The decision of the Sub-Committee was therefore upheld, and the application for an increase of pension disallowed.
Is the Minister serious as far as this answer is concerned? This applicant never owned land or stock, and he has no income of any description. I think the Minister should take the matter up with the Local Government Department, so that this man's pension may be increased. He has no income whatsoever.
Of course, as the Deputy is well aware, his maintenance has to be taken into account. The local Sub-Committee and the Appeal Officer in the Department of Local Government were satisfied that his means for pension purposes were 12/-. Unless there has been a change in his circumstances that ends the matter. If there has been a change, the matter can be opened up again.
I cannot see how that decision was arrived at in view of the fact that the man owns no property and has no income. He is living with his brother, who has to keep seven in his family. I do not see how they could assess his means at 12/-. I would like the Minister to inquire further into this case. I think the decision is most unfair.