Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018
2423. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection her plans to increase the State pension to pre-recession rates in view of the increase in the cost of living and the higher cost of living incurred by those living alone in rural Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32672/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe value of the State Pension is higher today than it was prior to the recession. In 2006, the maximum rate of the State Pension (contributory) was €193.30. This was increased by €14 to €209.30 for 2007 and by €14 again for 2008 bringing the rate to €223.30. In January 2009, the contributory pension was increased by €7 to bring the rate to €230.30.
As the recession continued, the contributory pension rate did not see any reduction, and remained at €230.30 until an increase of €3 in 2016. The rate has since increased each year since and currently stands at €243.30, some €50 more than it was in 2006 and €13 more than it was in 2009.
Any changes to the rate of the State Pension (contributory) could have significant budget implications and would have to be considered in the context of overall budgetary negotiations.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
