Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 27 Nov 1997

Vol. 483 No. 5

Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefit.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

136 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo had her pension reduced by £10 per week in view of the fact that she is 84 years old, cares for her 47 years old handicapped son and will find it impossible to manage on a reduced income; and if his Department will leave this woman on her current income. [20862/97.

Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

The person concerned is currently in receipt of a widow's non-contributory pension. This is a means-tested payment and the rate payable, if any, depends on the person's means from other sources. She is currently receiving a pension at the rate of £58.50 per week, based on means of £20 per week derived mainly from her British retirement pension. This assessment was made in April 1993.

A recent review of her claim has indicated that her British pension had increased by £4.27 per week since the previous review. As a result, the appropriate rate of pension in her case is £54.50 per week, a reduction of £4 per week on her current rate. In addition, she receives a fuel allowance of £5 per week between mid-October and mid-April and she is entitled to free electricity allowance and free telephone rental allowance.

The person concerned has been advised of the position. Her son is receiving a disability allowance at the maximum rate of £67.50.

On this basis the household is receiving its full entitements under the schemes administered by my Department.