The EU provisions on social security do not replace the national social security systems of the 15 member states by a single, standardised European system. Rather, they perform a co-ordinating role between these different systems and establish common rules and principles which have to be observed by all national authorities.
These precepts are reflected in the EU regulations on social security, Nos: 1408/71 and 574/72, which contain detailed provisions on the application and implementation of social security schemes throughout the European Union and apply to employed persons, self-employed persons and to members of their families moving within the Union.
Old age pensions are among the most important social security benefits covered by the EU regulations. These provide, for instance, that a person who has been insurably employed in more than one member state will have his/her pension calculated according to the insurance record in each country – the rate of payment corresponding, on a pro rata basis, to the periods of insurance completed there. This pro rata principle also applies to any increases paid in respect of the recipient's personal circumstances – for example, in the context of Irish social welfare pensions, where the over-80 increase is applicable.
The standard rate increase of £6 per week paid in respect of a person living alone – otherwise known as the living alone allowance – is not subject to this rule. This is because the increase is a contribution towards a specific contingency – namely, in acknowledgement of the extra costs incurred where a person resides alone.
I understand the Deputy is also inquiring as to why a person resident in Ireland and in receipt of a British social security pension, is not entitled to a living alone allowance or the over-80 increase from my Department.