Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 March 2019
1248. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection her plans to move to a total contributions approach for the State pension (contributory) for all pensioners in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12985/19]
View answerThe Government intends to introduce a Total Contributions Approach (TCA) to establishing the level of entitlement for all new state pension contributory claims from 2020 onwards (TCA2020).
I launched a public consultation on the design of the full TCA for all new pensioners to be introduced from 2020 on the 28th of May to which a wide variety of stakeholder groups were invited. A number of workshops were also held on the day to elicit views and feedback. All Oireachtas members were invited to a detailed briefing in Leinster House by my officials shortly afterwards. The consultation was open for over 3 months and the Department received almost 300 responses from individuals and organisations. Those submissions outlined the views of respondents on a number of issues, including the number of years required for a full pension, as intended as part of the consultation process.
I intend bringing a proposal to Government shortly, setting out the proposed details of the scheme. When the Government has agreed the approach to be taken, I will initiate the work required to introduce this reform. I can confirm that the model will include provision for homecaring periods.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
