asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is aware that pensioners entitled to less than the maximum rate of pension will receive smaller rates of increase this year than in previous years because the proposed increases are calculated on a percentage rate of their current pension rather than on a cash increase equivalent to that applicable at the top of the pension scale; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Pension Rates.
72.
The rate of increase of social welfare pensions announced in the budget statement of 28th January, 1976, was 10 per cent of current entitlement. A cash increase equivalent to 10 per cent of the maximum rate of pension could not have been given to persons on reduced rates of pension without departing from the budget provision.
73.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether the method of calculating pension increases has been altered from the procedure adopted last year and in previous years; and, if so, the effect of such alteration.
There is no standard method for calculating pension increases. These are determined by the Government and are normally announced by the Minister for Finance in his budget statement.
The budget statement of 28th January, 1976, provided for an increase of 10 per cent in all pensions and effect was given to this provision in the Social Welfare Act, 1976.