Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 January 2016
96. Deputy Mary Mitchell O'Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection why a person is not receiving the increase in the widow's pension as per budget 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1843/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn Budget 2016, there was limited scope for rate increases, and it was decided that the additional funds would, largely, concentrate on the elderly, who are less likely to be in a position to take up employment than those of working age. The Budget increased the maximum rates for all social welfare recipients aged 66 and over by €3 per week. This increase applied to State Pensions, but also to Widow aged 66 and over, Carer's Allowance recipients aged 66 and over and Incapacity Supplement recipients aged 66 and over. In this context, the rate of payment for widows of working age was not changed.
A widow aged between 60 and 65 years, whose late spouse/civil partner received the Household Benefits package from this Department, may qualify for that package if they otherwise satisfy all other conditions and receive a relevant qualifying payment.
Where the surviving spouse/surviving civil partner was the person in receipt of the allowance(s) they can retain the Household Benefits package provided that the conditions for receipt of the allowance remains satisfied. Where a widow/widower/surviving civil partner is also in receipt of half rate Disability Benefit this will not prevent him/her from qualifying for the Household Benefits Package.
I was pleased to announce in Budget 2016 that the rate of the Fuel Allowance scheme was increased from €20 to €22.50, which will be of benefit to many disadvantaged widows of all ages, and householders on long-term welfare, and will assist with meeting the costs of their heating needs during the winter season. To receive Fuel Allowance, Widows pension recipients must also satisfy the other conditions for that payment, i.e., be unable to provide for their heating needs from the resources of their household, live alone or only with one of a list of exempted persons, and satisfy a means test. All recipients of non-contributory payments are accepted as satisfying the means-test.
