Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 28 Apr 1992

Vol. 418 No. 7

Written Answers. - Non-Contributory Pension Application.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

336 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Social Welfare if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a person (details supplied) in County Wexford has been refused an old age non-contributory pension on the grounds that her means exceed the prescribed limit, despite the fact that of the £385 fortnightly income to her household, £280 goes to maintain her husband in a nursing home and £70 per fortnight is payable in rent for her accommodation, leaving the applicant with £35 per fortnight to provide all the necessities of life; if he has satisfied himself that this refusal is appropriate in all the circumstances of the case; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Social Welfare (Mr. McCreevy)

It was decided on 6 April 1992 that the person concerned does not qualify for old age non-contributory pension as her means exceed the statutory limit of £58.00 per week.

My Department is aware of the expenses which this person incurs in renting accommodation and in support for her husband. However, there is no provision in social welfare legislation to offset such expenses against means in deciding entitlement to pension.

If the person concerned is encountering difficulties with living expenses, she should contact her local health board which may be in a position to assist her.

The Deputy may wish to note that, as the person concerned is over 66 years of age, she is entitled to a free travel pass. A free travel application form issued to her recently.