Vol. 554 No. 5
1700 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo was refused a non-contributory widows pension; and if this person qualifies for an old age contributory pension. [16290/02]
The person concerned applied for a widow's non-contributory pension in February. This pension is a means tested payment and all sources of means, including income and capital, are assessable. The person concerned was requested to furnish details concerning the transfer of assets and the disposal of capital.
Despite a number of requests she has failed to provide the relevant information. As a result on 7 May a deciding officer concluded that she was not entitled to a widow's non-contributory pension. If she submits the necessary information her entitlement can be reconsidered.
There is no record of my Department having received an application for old age contributory pension. An application form for the latter pension has been issued and entitlement to this payment will be examined on receipt of a completed application form.
Under social welfare legislation, decisions in relation to claims are made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
