Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 September 2020
704. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Social Protection her plans to extend farm relief for farmers over 66 years of age in view of the fact that the pension age will increase to 67 years of age in January 2021; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21859/20]
View answerFarm Assist is an income support for low-income farmers. To be eligible for the scheme a person must be aged between 18 and 66 years, a farmer, be farming land in the State and satisfy a means test.
The changes introduced in the Social Welfare and Pensions Act, 2011 provided that the State pension age would increase to age 67 in 2021 and to age 68 in 2028. In January 2014, the abolition of the State Pension (Transition) standardised the State pension age in Ireland at 66 years. The changes were made to improve the longer-term sustainability of the state pension system as life expectancy rates rise.
The Programme for Government makes a commitment to defer the planned increase to State pension age from 66 to 67 in 2021. The Government has clearly set out its approach to the pension age question. Legislation will be introduced this year that will ensure that the State pension age remains at 66.
In recognition of the importance of the Farm Assist scheme to low income farmers my Department has also committed under the Programme for Government to conducting a review of the means test disregards for the scheme.
Any person who is experiencing financial hardship may be eligible for other financial supports under the means-tested supplementary welfare allowance scheme including an Exceptional or Urgent Needs payment, where the need is demonstrated. Information on the supports available under this scheme is available at www.gov.ie
It should be mentioned also that a dedicated telephone helpline has been set up to assist farmers with their queries on COVID-19 restrictions. The helpline is 076 106 4468 (9.30am to 12.30am and from 2pm to 5pm).
I trust that this clarifies the position at this time.
