Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 April 2019
298. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the position in regard to entitlement to a pro rata pension in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18258/19]
View answerSince late September 2018, my Department has been examining the social insurance records of approximately 90,000 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) pension calculation which includes provision for HomeCaring periods.
An examination of the person's social insurance record shows some unexplained gaps. A request for information about time spend out of the workforce for parenting or caring reasons has been issued to the person concerned. Included in the letter are details of how to return the required information using the Department’s online services. This is the quickest and easiest way to provide the information required to complete the person's review. The letter also provides a dedicated helpline to provide support and assistance when making their online application, or to request a paper application if their difficulties using the online service cannot be resolved.
On receipt of the requested information, the person’s pension rate will be reviewed and they will be notified of the outcome in writing. Where an increase is due, it will be backdated to the person's 66th birthday. If no increase is due following the review, the person will continue to receive their existing rate of payment.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
