Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 March 2019
307. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the status of the pension entitlements of persons who had periods outside of the tax system; and if all pensioners who are having reassessments carried out have been communicated with at this stage. [11275/19]
View answerSince late September 2018, my Department has been examining the social insurance records of pensioners, born on or after 1 September 1946, who have a reduced rate state pension (contributory) entitlement based on post Budget 2012 rate-bands. These payments are being reviewed under a new Total Contributions Approach (TCA) to pension calculation. Provision has also been made for HomeCaring Periods for those who took time out of the workplace to parent children or care for individuals.
Information letters have issued to around 79,000 pensioners who were awarded state pension (contributory) prior to 31 December 2018, which explains the review process. The information letter also explains that not all pensioners included in the review will be requested to provide additional information. Wherever possible my Department will use information already held to process the reviews.
In January 2019, almost 24,000 requests for additional information were issued, with more requests expected to issue over the coming weeks. These requests include details on how to provide the requested information using the Department’s online services, with a dedicated telephone number provided to support and assist pensioners making their applications. Provision has also been made for those who do not have access to a personal computer, or the internet, who can use the dedicated line to request paper forms.
Following on from my signing the necessary Regulations on 13 February 2019, which together with provisions in the Social Welfare, Pensions and Civil Registrations Act 2018 allows the increased payments to be made, the first review outcomes have issued. Outcomes, in writing, will issue to all pensioners included in the review over the coming months. Due to the numbers involved, it will take a number of months to complete the reviews. Over 100 temporary staff have been recruited to help with this work.
Where due, adjustments to increased rates of payment will be made without delay and will include arrears backdated to 30 March 2018, or the person's 66th birthday if later. Where pension rates do not increase as a result of this review, the person will continue to be paid at their existing rate. No one will be worse off as a result of this review.
Reviews will continue to be processed until all identified pensioners receive a review outcome in writing.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
