Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 November 2018
620. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the evidence carers must provide to be considered for the homecarers credits under the new total contribution approach calculations for the State pension (contributory); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47989/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, the legislation required to underpin the provision of home caring periods is included in the Social Welfare, Pensions and Registrations Bill 2018 which is currently before the Dáil for consideration. Until such time as the legislation is enacted and the supporting regulations required to underpin the revised arrangements are in place, it is not possible to provide operational details in relation to the scheme.
However, I can advise that it is the intent of my Department to ensure that the process of applying for Home Caring Periods is as user friendly as possible. In this regard, my Department will reuse as much of the information it has on hand as possible, e.g., details about gap periods will not be requested from a pensioner where it is clear from the Department records that they directly coincide with a period for which the person was providing full time care for a child under 12 years of age.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
