asked the Minister for Social Welfare the date of introduction of the existing scale of yearly means governing qualification for non-contributory old age pensions; and the cost involved in bringing the scale into line with present-day money values.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Old Age Pensions.
38.
The existing scale of yearly means governing qualification for non-contributory old age pensions was introduced on 1st November, 1963.
While the cost of adjusting the scale to bring it into line with the increase in the Consumer Price Index since November, 1963, is estimated to be of the order of £3,000, the increases announced in the Budget statement will provide an additional £760,000 annually for non-contributory old age pensioners.
39.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare (a) the estimated number of non-contributory old age pensioners who will qualify if the age limit is altered to 65 years as qualifying age in accordance with the existing scale, distinguishing between male and female, and (b) the estimated cost involved, giving separate figures for males and females.
According to the latest census returns, there are 211,600 persons over the age of 70, and of these some 115,570, i.e. 55 per cent, are in receipt of old age non-contributory pension. The census shows that there are 103,500 persons in the 65-69 age group in the country. If the same proportion of this group were to qualify for non-contributory pension, at current rates, the additional numbers and cost of pensions would be:—
|
Number |
Cost |
|
|
Males |
28,127 |
£2,497,000 |
|
Females |
28,791 |
£2,560,000 |
Reduction of the qualifying age for non-contributory old age pension to 65 would involve such questions as a corresponding reduction for contributory old age pension, the possible withdrawal or adjustment of Social Welfare services at present available to persons under 70 and alteration of the age limit for insurability. The numbers and cost would be affected by the decisions on these questions.
40.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether any reciprocal arrangements exist between Great Britain and the Republic concerning payment of (a) contributory and (b) non-contributory old age pensions; and if he can give appropriate details.
There are no reciprocal arrangements between Great Britain and this country in relation to either contributory or non-contributory old age pensions. As I have already stated in reply to recent questions, it is hoped to have preliminary discussions with the British authorities soon on the possibility of reciprocal arrangements involving their retirement pensions and our old age (contributory) pensions.