asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (details supplied) in County Clare had his supplementary pension reduced since his wife is very seriously ill; and whether any alleviation allowance exists for couples where both persons are chronically ill.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefit.
20.
Alleviation payments were introduced under temporary measures in November 1986 to assist persons who suffered reductions in payment as a consequence of the new dependency arrangements brought into force at that time by the EC Equality Directive.
These payments were due to expire in mid-November 1987. However, the Government have decided that they should be phased out gradually in view of the hardship that would be caused to persons involved by the abrupt cessation of these payments. Payment continued at the full rate until July 1988 and the forthcoming reduction will coincide with the budgetary increase of 3 per cent on basic entitlements.
In this case, the person concerned is in receipt of an old age contributory pension at the weekly personal rate of £54.10 plus an alleviation payment in respect of his dependent wife of £18. In line with the budgetary arrangements his personal rate of £54.10 will increase to £55.70 and the £18 payment will be reduced by £2.
There are no other alleviating payments for couples in the circumstances mentioned. Nevertheless, inquiries are being made to confirm that the person concerned is receiving the full rate of pension appropriate to him and he will be notified of the outcome as soon as possible.