Bernard Allen
Question:362 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Social Welfare when an old age pension will be paid to a person (details supplied) in Cork who reached the age of 66 in April 1991 and has not received her pension yet.
Written Answers. - Social Wefare Benefits.
There is no trace of an application for pension having been received in my Department from the person concerned. An application form recently issued to her.
As soon as this is completed and returned to my Department, her entitlement to pension will be investigated.
Frank Crowley
Question:364 Mr. Crowley asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a decision will be made regarding the unemployment assistance appeal of a person (details supplied) in Cork.
The person concerned made an application for unemployment assistance on 3 July 1991 and signed the unemloyed register for three weeks up to 23 July 1991. Following investigation of her claim by a social welfare officer, her means were assessed by a deciding officer at £71.70 per week derived from benefit of board and lodging on her father's farm. As her weekly means exceed the limit for payment of unemployment assistance, no payment is due to her. She will be advised of this decision in the next few days and of her right to appeal the assessment if dissatisfied.
Seán Barrett
Question:365 Mr. S. Barrett asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will outline the entitlements of persons paying PRSI who work less than 20 hours per week.
Since April 1991 all workers employed under a contract of service and earning £25 or more per week, irrespective of hours worked are insurable for the full range of social welfare benefits. Short term benefits, such as unemloyment benefit and disability benefit, will be paid at reduced rates which will be related to earnings. Benefits based on contributions in the 1991-92 tax year will be payable from January 1993.
People who earn less than £25 are regarded as being in employment of inconsiderable extent and are only covered for occupational injury benefit.