Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 8 May 2001

Vol. 535 No. 4

Written Answers - Pension Provisions.

Paul McGrath

Question:

220 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if pre-1953 contributions can be combined with PRSI contributions paid after that time when assessing the contributor for an old age contributory pension. [12816/01]

Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

The person to whom, it is understood, the question refers is a qualified adult on her husband's retirement pension. He is currently in receipt of this pension at the rate of £185.60 per week inclusive of a qualified adult allowance of £79.60. On the basis of her own contribution record, the person concerned would qualify for a special pre-1953 old age contributory pension or a reduced standard rate old age contributory pension based upon her contributions since 1953.

If she opted to receive either pension, the amount payable would be £53 per week, that is, half the maximum personal standard rate pension. In that event if she opted to receive either of these pensions, the qualified adult allowance on her husband's retirement pension would cease. Accordingly, she and her husband are better off financially if she remains as a qualified adult on his pension. She has been notified of this position.