asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason a person (name supplied) in County Galway does not qualify for the maximum rate of windows pension.
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
186.
The person concerned was awarded a widow's non-contributory pension at a reduced rate, with effect from 16 April 1979, on the basis of the means assessed on the value of a holding of land and capital in the bank.
She appealed against the decision and, in accordance with the normal practice in such cases, her means were reinvestigated before the papers were referred to an appeals officer for determination. The appeals officer has now decided that she is entitled to an increased rate of pension from 5 October 1979. A pension order book at the revised rate has been issued to the designated post office for collection by her and a payable order in respect of the adjustment due to her from October 1979 to date has been issued direct to her.
The widow is not entitled to a pension at the maximum rate as her present means, derived from her holding and the balance of her capital, are still in excess of the statutory limit for the payment of non-contributory pension at the maximum rate.
187.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare when unemployment benefit will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Galway.
The person concerned claimed disability benefit, not unemployment benefit, from 2 January 1980 to 9 February 1980. All disability and pay-related benefit due on his claim has been paid. The final payment issued on 14 March 1980.