State Pension (Non-Contributory)

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 December 2020

Wednesday, 9 December 2020

Questions (153)

Aindrias Moynihan

Question:

153. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Social Protection if the correspondence a person (details supplied) sent in response to questions in relation to a non-contributory pension on 30 September 2020 reaffirmed the previous data available; if the person should have had a reasonable expectation to have a decision on their backpay at that point; and if the Minister can advise what new information if any prompted the new series of questions raised in correspondence of 24 November 2020. [42407/20]

Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

The state pension non-contributory entitlement of the person concerned is currently being reviewed by a Deciding Officer.  On 30 September 2020, a request for information issued to the person concerned requesting documentation which was outstanding on that date.  The requested documentation was required by the Deciding Officer in their consideration of a possible period of backdated pension entitlement for the person concerned.  

Following examination by the Deciding Officer of certain financial statements provided, an explanation of specific financial transactions was sought on 24 November 2020 by the Deciding Officer, before they can accurately determine the means of the person concerned during the relevant period, which in turn will determine their possible pension entitlement. 

On receipt, the information received will be examined by the Deciding Officer, who will respond to the person concerned without delay.    

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.