Michael Ring
Question:269 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if he will have a review undertaken of the assessment of the non-contributory pension for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [29516/01]
Written Answers. - Pension Provisions.
The person concerned is currently in receipt of an old age non-contributory pension of £49.50, 62.85, per week, including a living alone allowance of £6, 7.62. Her rate of pension is based on means of £58 per week deriving from her British pension.
Following a recent review of her entitlement, the weekly means of the person concerned have been re-assessed at £92, 116.82, due to increases in the value of her British pension. On this basis, her old age non-contributory pension is being reduced to £15.50, 19.68, per week from 23 November 2001. She has the right of appeal to the social welfare appeals office in relation to this decision.
Under social welfare legislation, decisions relating to claims are made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.