Michael Ring
Question:325 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when a pension book will returned to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [4104/02]
Written Answers. - Pension Provisions.
The person concerned was in receipt of an old age non-contributory pension of €40.40 per week, comprising a personal rate of €6.30, a living alone allowance of €7.70 and a fuel allowance of €6.40.
In January 2002, it came to the attention of the Department that she was no longer residing alone and was not, therefore, entitled to a living alone allowance. She was notified accordingly by the Department and her pension book was recalled. A new pension book at the revised rate of €32.70 was issued to her post office on 25 January 2002 for collection by her.
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.