Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 October 2023
367. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Social Protection if a decision can be made on the contributory pension for a person (details supplied) based on the information already provided, as no further information is available; if a statement of contributions can be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46461/23]
View answerThe person concerned reached pension age on 19 March 2023.
The rate awarded for State Pension (contributory) is based on a person's insurable record. According to the records of my Department, the person concerned has a total of 1,138 contributions from their date of entry into insurable employment to the end of 2022, the tax year prior to their 66th birthday. This equates to a yearly average of 23 contributions and gives entitlement to a reduced State Pension (contributory) at the current weekly rate of €225.90. This decision issued to the person concerned on 2 March 2023 along with a copy of their insurance record. I have arranged for a further copy of their insurance record to issue.
The Deciding Officer noted a discrepancy between the work history provided on the application form and the contributions recorded on the Department's system. The case was referred to the Records Section in my Department for further investigation. Further information was requested from the person concerned to assist with the investigation. As no further information was provided, the case has now been referred for investigation by a Social Welfare Inspector (SWI).
Payment of the State pension (contributory) will continue at the rate awarded. If, following the investigation, further contributions are awarded to the person concerned, their rate of payment will be reviewed and they will be notified of the outcome.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
