Joe Walsh
Ceist:128 Mr. J. Walsh asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will allow a combination of the two PRSI records of both spouses to qualify for survivor's contributory pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11664/95]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
At present a survivor may use his-her own or spouse's PRSI record to qualify for a survivor's pension. There is no proposal to allow for a combination of two PRSI records to qualify for a survivor's pension as the present qualification criteria are considered to be fair and equitable.
Joe Walsh
Ceist:129 Mr. J. Walsh asked the Minister for Social Welfare the total number in receipt of deserted wife's allowance at the end of May 1995; and the total number in receipt of deserted wife's benefit at the end of May 1995. [11871/95]
At the end of May 1995 there were 2,090 people in receipt of deserted wife's allowance and 13,974 people in receipt of deserted wife's benefit. In addition, there were 42,774 people in receipt of lone parent's allowance, 9,280 of whom were separated parents caring for children.