Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 February 2024
299. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Social Protection in light of the recent Supreme Court ruling (detailed supplied), whether there are plans in place to legislate for where an unmarried partner is entitled to a partner's pension in the event of their death; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4667/24]
View answerUnder the law as currently enacted, entitlement to a Widows, Widowers or Surviving Civil Partner’s Contributory pension is only available to a surviving partner who was party to a marriage or civil partnership.
On Monday 22nd January the Supreme Court deliverd its judgment in relation to the entitlement of an unmarried co-habitant to a Widows, Widowers or Surviving Civil Partner’s Contributory pension. The Supreme Court judgment overruled a previous High Court decision and found in favour of the claimant and his children.
In simple terms the Court has found that section 124 of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 (as amended) is inconsistent with the Constitution insofar as it excluded the claimant from the category of persons entitled to benefit from it. The Court reached that conclusion on the basis of the equality guarantee contained in Article 40.1 of the Constitution. The Supreme Court judgment notes that in order to resolve the issue raised by the judgment, a legislative amendment is required.
My officials and the Office of the Attorney General are now considering the very detailed judgment, including the legislative changes required to respond to this decision. This will be done with all expediency.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
