asked the Minister for Social Welfare the number of widows who will be affected by the elimination of half-rate disability benefit in so far as it applies to them, and the amount of money he expects to save by this measure in 1988.
Written Answers. - Disability Benefits.
31.
From January 1988, new claimants to disability benefit, who are receiving a widow's pension, deserted wife's payment, unmarried mother's allowance or prisoners wives allowance are not entitled to receive half-rate payment of disability benefit, in addition to their other payment, nor are they liable to pay their PRSI contribution as employees.
It is estimated that approximately 900 widows will be affected by the elimination of the overlap for half-rate disability benefit in 1988. Savings from all the above categories combined are estimated to be £900,000 this year. The measure will affect new claimants only. however, widows who were in receipt of both payments on 1 January 1988 will retain their entitlement for the duration of their current claims to disability benefit.