Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 June 2018
1247. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if a matter regarding changes to pension calculations and age of eligibility for a pension (details supplied) will be addressed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25011/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government intends to introduce a Total Contributions Approach (TCA) to establishing level of entitlement for the contributory state pension from 2020 onwards. However, notwithstanding various inaccurate media reports, the criteria required for a full pension under that new approach have not yet been determined and are currently subject to a public consultation which I launched on 28 May last. These final details will not be decided upon until I have considered the submissions received in this process. This public consultation is available on my Department’s website and I would encourage all interested stakeholders to contribute to the survey there.
As with the current Yearly Average approach, the new TCA will allow credited contributions for periods of jobseeking and illness, when signing for benefits.
Finally, as provided for in the Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2011, the State pension age will be increased in phases to 67 in 2021 and to 68 in 2028.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
