asked the Minister for Social Welfare if a person drawing contributory old age pension who goes to live in Jersey for a period of 12 months is entitled to continued payment of this pension; and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Payment of Old Age Pension.
17.
A person drawing old age contributory pension who goes to live in Jersey or anywhere outside the State other than Northern Ireland, Great Britain or the Isle of Man, is disqualified for receiving pension. If, however, his absence does not exceed 12 months, he may, on his return, be paid pension for the last six months of his absence.
This is in accordance with the provisions of the Social Welfare Acts and regulations made thereunder.
If he only goes for six months, will he be refunded the full six months when he returns?
Yes.
Does the Minister seriously say he accepts premiums during the whole working life of a man in this country, who on attaining the age of 70, becomes entitled by virtue of the contributions he has paid, to a contributory old age pension and that he embezzles the old age pension if the pensioner ceases to live within the jurisdiction of the State? I cannot believe that is true. Does any Deputy in the House believe it is true?
That is the position under the Social Welfare Acts.
I submit to the Minister, with respect, that that amounts to the embezzlement of the contribution of the man who made it.
He only pays part of the contribution. If it would help Deputy Dillon, I agree this is something which should be looked into.
(Cavan): Will the Minister look into it with a view to rectifying this unfair position?
Yes.