Denis Naughten
Ceist:114 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs her plans to amend the non-contributory old age pension income calculation for landowners; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13332/03]
Written Answers. - Pension Provisions.
I understand that the Deputy is concerned in particular about the current arrangements applying in the case of old age pension where a landholder leases land or is otherwise in possession of land which is lying fallow or idle. Where land is let on short-term lettings such as the eleven months system, the income from such lettings is calculated as cash income for the purpose of the means assessment for old age pension. Necessary expenses incurred by the owner, such as auctioneer fees, fencing or fertilising between lettings is deducted from the gross letting income.
Where land is lying fallow or idle, there are two options for the assessment of means. If the social welfare inspector is satisfied that the pension claimant is depriving himself or herself of an income in order to qualify for a pension, or a pension at a higher rate than would otherwise be the case, the relevant assessment is the income which would be received, if the land was let. Where the Inspector is satisfied that this is not the case, the value of the land is obtained from the Valuation Office and is assessed as capital for means purposes. There are no plans to change the present arrangements in this regard. Any change in these assessment arrangements could only be considered in a budgetary context.
Question No. 115 answered with Question No. 87.
Question No. 116 answered with Question No. 106.