Gay Mitchell
Question:198 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance the rates of PRSI for persons over 66 and under 66; the benefits persons over 66 are entitled to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23252/99]
Written Answers. - Health Contributions.
I understand that the Deputy is referring to the 2 per cent health contribution and not PRSI. The Deputy will recall that from 6 April 1999, the 1 per cent employment and training levy was abolished and the health contribution was increased from 1.25 per cent to 2 per cent.
The health contribution is chargeable on the income of persons over 16 years of age with the following exceptions: income below £217 per week or £11,250 per annum; payments under the Social Welfare Acts; medical card holders; persons in receipt of a widow or widower's contributory, non-contributory or occupational injuries' pension or a corresponding EU pension; persons in receipt of a deserted wife's benefit or allowance; persons in receipt of a lone parent's allowance; and maintenance payments are also allowed as a deduction to the payer before computing the health contribution
The total income from the health contribution is paid into the vote for the Department of Health and Children as an appropriation-in-aid and goes to meet the cost of the general health services. There are no direct personal benefits accruing from the payment of the health contribution.