Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 July 2020
109. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if persons who turn 66 years of age before the completion of the review by the commission on pensions will be entitled to receive a State pension under the policy; and if it will be the case that once awarded a pension these persons will not be affected by a change to the pension age. [16175/20]
View answerThe Social Welfare and Pensions Act, 2011 provided for increases to the State pension age to make the State pension system more sustainable as life expectancy increases. This began in January 2014 with the abolition of the State Pension (Transition). This measure standardised the State pension age for all at 66 years. The legislation currently provides for increases to the State pension age - to 67 in 2021 and further to 68 in 2028.
The new Programme for Government “Our Shared Future” states that the planned increase in the State pension age next year will be deferred. This will require amendment to primary legislation and the Government will bring in the necessary legislation later this year.
Furthermore, a Commission on Pensions will be established to examine sustainability and eligibility issues in relation to State pensions and the Social Insurance Fund. The Commission is to report to Government by June 2021 on options including the qualifying age, contribution rates, total contributions and eligibility requirements. The Government will take action, having regard to the recommendations of the Commission, within six months. Pending the Commission’s report and any subsequent Government decisions on its recommendations, it is intended that the State pension age will remain at 66 years.
I hope this clarifies matters for the Deputy.
