Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:32 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether he intends to make any further modifications in respect of entitlements, including widow's and other pensions; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Pension Entitlements.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:60 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether he proposes to impose any further restrictions on entitlements to sick benefits pensions and other pensions; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 32 and 60 together.
In the Social Welfare Bill which I introduced recently in Dáil Éireann I made provision for the introduction of a new survivor's pension which provides for equal treatment for widows and widowers. Under the new scheme, widowers will qualify for a survivor's pension under the same conditions as currently apply in the case of Widow's (Contributory) Pension.
In regard to pensions generally the Deputy will be aware that the final report of the National Pensions Board "Developing the National Pension System" was presented to me recently.
This is a comprehensive and complex report which runs to 250 pages and contains 86 conclusions and recommendations on all aspects of pensions. The report and the recommendations are being studied within my Department and I intend, in due course, to bring forward an overall package of proposals based on the report.