asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is aware that, although the Social Welfare Acts state that any cash allowance from a charitable organisation is not assessable as means, three old age pensioners who reside in the Damer House, 27 Parnell Street, Dublin, which is a charitable organisation recognised under these Acts, are assessed with unfurnished lodgings at a nominal sum of £5 4s per annum thus depriving them of the full old age pension; and that, despite the fact that the old age pension committee have recommended these cases, they were disallowed on appeal; and if he will take steps to ensure that the accommodation provided for these pensioners is not assessed as means.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Means Assessment For Old Age Pensions.
46.
I have obtained a report in regard to these cases. It confirms that the pensioners are provided with accommodation for which no charge is made and that the organisation which provides the residence does not accept contributions from the residents.
The rate of pension payable was statutorily determined by an appeals officer whose decision is final and conclusive.
47.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if, having regard to the fact that interest earned on post office savings is at the rate of only 3½ per cent per annum, he will amend the old age pension regulation which requires that income from post office savings be calculated at an assumed rate of 8 per cent per annum; and, if not, why.
The Old Age Pensions Acts require that means deriving from property be assessed on the capital value of the property and not on the income therefrom. I do not propose to introduce legislation to alter this basic provision. I may add that the means assessed on the present basis of calculation are less than eight per cent of the capital except where this exceeds £1,062 10s 0d.