Vol. 559 No. 2
208 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has not received a contributory old age pension; if this person did not qualify, the reason this person is not receiving an old age non-contributory pension; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26042/02]
According to the records of my Department the person concerned started paying social insurance contributions in the tax year commenced 6 April 1999 at which time she had reached age 63 years. She would not qualify for a standard rate or reduced rate pro rata old age contributory pension as she did not enter insurable employment or insurable self-employment before reaching age 56. Her application for pension was refused and she was notified accordingly.
In the light of further information received, inquiries are being made to establish if contributions should have been paid on her behalf in respect of earlier periods. When these inquiries are completed her entitlement will be reviewed and she will be advised of the outcome.
She has been awarded the old age non-contributory pension from 27 September, the Friday following her 66th birthday, at the weekly rate of €106.50 plus a living alone of €7.70 and a fuel allowance of €9 per week. A payable order book has now issued to the nominated post office payable from 1 November. The arrears due will be issued shortly.
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.
