asked the Minister for Social Welfare if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be allowed enter the new PRSI pension scheme for the self-employed, having regard to his previous contributions over a 15 year period ending in 1975; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - PRSI Pension Scheme.
141.
On the basis of the information provided it seems probable that the person is obliged to register under the PRSI scheme for the self-employed. A registration form has not been received to date and I have arranged for a form to be sent to him. On receipt of that form arrangements will be made for his contributions to be collected if his income is above the threshold of £2,500 per annum.
He was previously insured under the general scheme for employees. Accordingly, he will have the option, under transitional arrangments, of selecting either the first entry to social insurance or his entry under the extended scheme as the basis for establishing his entitlements. My Department will automatically apply the most favourable arrangement when he attains pension age.