Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 December 2020
466. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Social Protection if a review of the suitability of the rates and the eligibility criteria attached to the widow's, widower's or surviving civil partner's (contributory) pension will be included in the work programme of the newly established Commission on Pensions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39614/20]
View answerThe Government approved the establishment of the Commission on Pensions last month, in fulfilment of a Programme for Government commitment. The Commission will examine sustainability and eligibility issues in respect of State pension arrangements and will outline options for the Government to address issues such as qualifying age, contribution rates, total contributions and eligibility requirements. These issues will be considered from a perspective of fiscal and social sustainability, and intergenerational fairness. I was delighted to attend the Commission's virtual inaugural meeting last week.
The Commission's Terms of Reference specifically mentions the State Pension Contributory and the State Pension Non Contributory schemes. While the Terms of Reference do not explicitly mention the Widow/er's and Surviving Civil Partner's Contributory Pension, if the Commission wishes to consider this scheme in the context of its remit to examine sustainability and eligibility issues related to the State Pension arrangements and the Social Insurance Fund, it is open to it to do so. The full Terms of Reference are available here: https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/b1c64-minister-humphreys-announces-the-establishment-of-the-pensions-commission/
In line with the Programme for Government, the Commission will report to me on its work, findings, options and recommendations by 30th June 2021. The Government intends to take action having regard to the recommendations of the Commission within six months.
The Government is acutely conscious of the need to consider the sustainability of the State’s finances. However, this is not the only consideration when thinking of the State pension system. It is important to ensure that the State Pension system continues to provide adequate support to pensioners over the long term. The system, including the Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's Contributory Pension, is extremely effective at ensuring that our pensioners do not experience poverty. This Government is committed to ensuring that this remains the case.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
