asked the Minister for Social Welfare the present position regarding eligibility for social welfare benefit on foot of UK contributions in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Eligibility for Benefit.
125.
Where a person has fewer than 260 contributions paid since entry into insurable employment, entitlement to disability benefit is limited to 52 weeks.
According to the records of the Department the person concerned has only 62 contributions paid on his behalf since entry into insurance. He claimed disability benefit from 3 November 1987 and was paid to 4 November 1988 after which date his 52 week entitlement became exhausted.
However, the person concerned indicated that he had been employed in Britain and on 17 November 1988 his insurance record was requested from the British authorities. Following several reminders from December 1988 to March 1989, my Department were eventually informed that the request could not be traced. A further request has now been sent and is being pursued urgently with the DHSS. When a reply is received the applicant's continued entitlement to benefit will be decided.