Vol. 472 No. 3
231 Mr. J. Walsh asked the Minister for Social Welfare the plans, if any, he has to change the qualifying rules for contributory pensions in respect of self-employed persons who were over 56 years of age in 1988; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23003/96]
The information requested by the Deputy is contained in my reply to Question No. 766 on 25 July 1996. There has been no change in the position since then.
232 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social Welfare when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be paid unemployment benefit in view of the fact that she has no other form of income and has already submitted four letters confirming that she is actively seeking work. [23047/96]
The person concerned made an application for unemployment benefit on 21 October 1996. She subsequently indicated to the Department that she is unable to take up work due to family commitments. A deciding officer disallowed her claim on the grounds that she is not available for work. The person concerned has been informed that she may appeal this decision to the independent appeals office if she is dissatisfied. A form for this purpose was issued to her on 29 November 1996.
233 Mr. J. Walsh asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will investigate the implications of raising the means test on deposit accounts for non-contributory old age pensioners from its current level to £5,000 and £10,000 respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23197/96]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Questions Nos. 54 and 80 on Wednesday 27 November 1996.
