Michael Ring
Ceist:861 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo is entitled to a pro rata or partial contributory old age pension. [2427/02]
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
The person concerned does not have sufficient contributions to qualify for a standard or pro rata old age contributory pension. According to my Department's records, he has a total of 70 contributions paid or credited since first entering insurance in 1953. Accordingly, his application for pension was disallowed and he was notified of the decision on 1 October 2001. Under Social Welfare legislation, decisions in relation to claims are made by statutorily appointed deciding officers and appeals officers and I have no role in making such decisions.
Michael Ring
Ceist:862 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if the case of a person a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has been reassessed; and if this person's application for a fuel allowance has been approved. [2428/02]
The person concerned has been awarded a fuel allowance at the weekly rate of 6.40, £5, with effect from 5 October 2001. This allowance increased to 9, £7, with effect from 4 January 2002. A payable order book for 6.40 will issue to the designated post office shortly and arrears due from 5 October 2001 will issue by cheque to her home address.