Vol. 513 No. 3
246 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if his Department is willing to pay arrears where a person who has been eligible for free schemes on age grounds did not claim this allowance for a number of years due to the fact he was not aware of his eligibility. [2380/00]
In the case of late claims to free electricity allowance and free telephone rental allowance, current practice in relation to late claims is to backdate for up to two years in addition to the year in which the claim is made. This practice is under review at present in the light of the changes made in the backdating provisions affecting contributory pensions. This review will be completed shortly and the practice will be further considered in the light of the conclusions.
