asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether he is aware that Johanna Doyle, Derristown, Murrintown, County Wexford, was refused an old age pension on grounds of means; that her husband, Michael Doyle, has been out of work for some time, and that neither the applicant nor her husband has any means; and, if so, whether he intends to remedy this state of affairs.
Written Answers. - Old Age Pension Claimant.
Mrs. Doyle was refused a pension in December, 1947, on the grounds that her means exceeded the statutory limit for pension. Her means were assessed on half her husband's earnings and the yearly value of a small plot. She again claimed in July, 1948, and in connection with this claim, she informed the investigation officer that her husband was still employed and that his wages were higher than in 1947. This claim was refused on the same grounds as the previous one.
Mrs. Doyle has now lodged a further claim to pension which will be investigated and determined as soon as possible. She has not, so far, given any indication to the Department that her husband is out of work.