Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:78 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Welfare the proposals, if any, he has to extend the eligibility for old age contributory pensions; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefit.
Employees, other than those in certain permanent and pensionable employments in the public sector, are covered for contributory old age pensions. In addition, since 1988 pension coverage has been extended to the self-employed.
The question of further extending eligibility for pensions is among the issues being examined by the National Pensions Board in the context of its final report on the development of a new national pensions system.
I expect to receive this report shortly and the question of changing or extending the eligibility for old age contributory pensions will be considered further in this context.