Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 July 2019
830. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if the pension of a person (details supplied) is under review; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30049/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince late September 2018, my Department has been examining the social insurance records of approximately 90,000 pensioners, born on or after 1 September 1946, who have a reduced rate State pension contributory entitlement based on post Budget 2012 rate-bands. These payments are being reviewed under a new Total Contributions Approach (TCA) to pension calculation which includes provision for home-caring periods.
The person concerned was awarded a reduced rate State pension (contributory) in 2015. Following an assessment of a claim for state pension (non-contributory), their state pension (contributory) claim was withdrawn in favour of a more beneficial weekly rate of state pension non-contributory.
In June 2019, the person concerned submitted an application for HomeCaring periods, with the maximum permissible number of HomeCaring periods (1,040, as set out in legislation) being awarded. Following a review of their state pension (contributory) entitlement, they are now entitled to the maximum rate. A review outcome has issued to the person concerned, outlining details of their increase and arrears of payment backdated to 30 March 2018 have issued.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
