Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018
2464. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the grounds upon which it can transpire that 25 years of combined contributions in the case of a person (details supplied) equates to a particularly reduced pension; if their case will be reviewed as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33122/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraA minimum of 520 full-rate paid social insurance contributions is required for entitlement to a standard Irish State pension (contributory), with a minimum of 260 full-rate paid social insurance contributions required for entitlement to a mixed insurance pro-rata pension. According to the records of the Department, the person concerned has 170 full-rate paid contributions and does not satisfy the qualifying conditions for standard or mixed insurance State pension (contributory). The person was notified of both of these decisions on 20 November 2017.
On review of the person’s social insurance contribution history, it is noted that only 5 contributions are recorded for the tax year 1973-74, with no contributions recorded for the two subsequent tax years 1974-75 and 1975-76. In addition, no social insurance contributions are recorded following the person’s public service (modified) employment contributions in 2011 until the person reached pension age. If the person considers that they have additional contributions or credits that have not been recorded, they should forward documentary evidence to my Department and their pension entitlement will be reviewed.
It is also open to the person concerned to apply for State pension (non-contributory) pension. This is a means-tested payment. A person with assessed means of up to €30 per week may qualify for the maximum rate; tapered rates of entitlement apply where weekly means are between €30 and €257.50; and non-qualification where means exceed €257.50 per week.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
