asked the Minister for Justice the reason Garda widows have had their pensions reduced from e.g. £3,820.00 per annum to approximately £1,925.00; the reasons for this decrease; if he will now take steps to have all pensions restored to their former levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Garda Widows' Pensions.
772.
There has been no reduction in the rate of Garda widows' pensions. While variations in the amount of a Garda widow's monthly pension cheque can occur if, for example, there is a change in her liability for income tax, I have no reason to think that such changes could account for reductions of the amount referred to in the question. If the question derives from some problem met by an individual Garda widow I would suggest that she should get in touch either with my Department or with the Paymaster General's Office who arrange for payment of Garda widows' pensions, with a view to having the matter clarified.