Since 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) to pension calculation which includes provision for homecaring periods.
A HomeCaring period application form has issued to the person concerned. On receipt of the completed form, a determination will be made on the person's eligibility or otherwise for HomeCaring periods. The pension rate of the person concerned will be re-examined, taking account of the HomeCaring period(s) determination.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.