Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022
906. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will address matters raised in correspondence in relation to a person (details supplied); the options that may be available to them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [63625/21]
View answerState Pension (non-contributory) is a means-tested payment for people aged 66 and over, who have a right of residence and habitually reside in the State and who do not qualify for a state pension contributory, or only qualify for a reduced-rate contributory pension based on their social insurance record.
An application for state pension (non-contributory) was received from the person concerned on 27 September 2021. Additional information in relation to the circumstances of the person’s residency was requested by the Deciding Officer. The pension application was disallowed as, although it is accepted that the person concerned is legally entitled to reside in the State, their residency permit is conditional on their having sufficient personal resources to support themselves.
The person concerned was notified of this decision on 4 December 2021, and of their right, if dissatisfied with the decision, to request a review or to appeal the decision to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office.
The Deputy's representations have been taken as a request for a review of this decision. A Deciding Officer has considered the facts of the case and the information provided by the Deputy.
The Deciding Officer has determined that the person concerned continues to be ineligible for state pension (non-contributory). The person concerned was notified of this decision on 10 January 2022 and informed of their right of appeal to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office.
If the person concerned is suffering from financial hardship, they are advised to contact their local Community Welfare Service, as they may be entitled to financial assistance. Applications are considered on a case by case basis.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
