Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2015
166. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if she will provide the details of the reduction to widow's, widower's or surviving civil partner’s pension in the past two budgets; if further cuts are envisaged; when the pensions will be restored to their previous levels; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3284/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe widows pension was introduced on 1st January 1936; it was extended to widowers on 28th October 1994, and extended to surviving civil partners from 1st January 2011. Once in payment, the pension remains payable while the person remains widowed or a surviving civil partner, (i.e. it is withdrawn if they re-marry), and is increased to the level of the State pension contributory at age 66.
The Deputy may wish to note there was no reduction in the last two budgets to the widow’s, widower’s or surviving civil partner’s contributory pension. The rate of payment for this pension has remained unchanged since January 2011, at €193.50 for those under age 66 and €230.30 for those aged 66 or over. Both of these are the maximum personal rates, with additional allowances payable in certain circumstances (e.g. dependent children).
In Budget 2015 the Government increased the living alone allowance to €9.00 for those who are in receipt of certain social welfare payments including the widow’s, widower’s or surviving civil partner’s contributory pension.
The overall concern of the Government in recent budgets has been to protect the primary weekly social welfare rates where possible. Maintaining the rate of the widow’s, widower’s or surviving civil partner’s contributory pension and other core payments is critical in protecting people from poverty. The Government has no plans to change this policy.
