Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 September 2004
1292 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason the pre-53 old age contributory pension cannot be organised and paid on a pro rata rate; if she has any intention to change; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21451/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe pre-53 pension was introduced in May 2000. The pension is based on 260 paid contributions, which can be a mixture of pre and post 1953 contributions, and is paid at half the full standard rate. Social insurance contributions made prior to 1953 are different to those made under the unified system introduced at that time. Such contributions do not contain any element towards the cost of contributory pensions. I consider that the structure of the pre-53 pension is a reasonable response to the position in which those eligible found themselves. Accordingly, I have no plans to amend the scheme along the lines suggested.
