Written Answers Nos. 505-526
505. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Social Protection the steps that she is taking to implement the agreement on the application of the 2008 Labour Court recommendation on community employment supervisors; the reason for the delay in the implementation of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24633/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, following complex and detailed discussions between the Department of Social Protection and unions representing CE supervisors and a subsequent ballot of union members, an agreement was reached with both Fórsa and Siptu late in 2021 that resolved issues arising from a 2008 Labour Court recommendation on CE supervisor pensions.
Both Minister Humphreys and I were very pleased that this settlement brought this difficult issue to a conclusion in a fair and balanced manner.
The total cost of the settlement is over €24 million which will be paid to individual beneficiaries by the Department of Social Protection.
Generally, under the terms of this settlement, on reaching retirement age, eligible CE supervisors and assistant supervisors will receive a once off ex-gratia payment in respect of time employed by CE schemes since 2008. People who retired since 2008 and who have reached retirement age will be able to apply for payments immediately when the scheme is in place.
My Department officials are currently finalising administrative arrangements to implement the agreed settlement so that payments can start to issue to qualified retired CE supervisors as soon as possible in the coming months.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
506. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection the consideration that has been given to the provision of pension and maternity leave benefits for women farmers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24636/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraCurrently, self-employed social insurance contributors, including men and women farmers, can qualify for a wide range of benefits, including the State Pension (Contributory) and Maternity/Paternity Benefit.
Since 2014, following amendments to the relevant provisions of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 to transpose EU Directive 2010/41/EU on the application of equal treatment between men and women engaged in self-employment activity, the spouse or civil partner of a self-employed person can benefit from social protection in accordance with the qualifying criteria set in national law.
The amendments mean that liability for social insurance contributions has been extended to the spouses and civil partners of self-employed contributors who are not formal business partners or employees, where they perform the same, or ancillary tasks. The liability of spouses and civil partners to make self-employment contributions is subject to the established provisions that apply to all self-employed contributors, including the requirement to declare reckonable annual income of at least €5,000.
While these provisions act to facilitate the spouse or civil partner of a self-employed contributor to become a self-employed contributor, I can also advise the Deputy that children within farming families that are aged over 16 years, can also become self-employed contributors within a family business partnership model. This arrangement applies where at least two family members operate a business in partnership, including farming, and where they share profits of the business or farm. In that circumstance, each business partner is insurable as a self-employed contributor in their own right, provided that each partner reaches the annual reckonable income threshold of €5,000. It is important that all farm partnerships are registered on the Register of Farm Partnerships that is maintained by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine.
While my Department keeps all matters under review, I am satisfied that the current legislative provisions concerning family employment and social insurance coverage achieves the necessary balance between establishing a formal and uniform system while acknowledging the informal and varied practicalities inherent in family operated enterprises, including farming.
I trust that this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
507. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Social Protection if she has considered index linking social protection payments in view of the fact that both Brexit and the war in Ukraine are projected to compound existing inflationary pressures from Covid-19 and the disruption of supply chains; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21439/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra536. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on the call by an organisation (details supplied) to benchmark core social welfare rates to 27.5% of average weekly earnings. [24942/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 507 and 536 together.
A number of studies in recent years have considered the indexation of various categories of social protection payments.
Following publication of the Roadmap for Pensions Reform in 2018, which included a recommendation to benchmark and index State Pension rates, my Department undertook a consultation process in 2019 with interested stakeholders to hear views on possible approaches to the indexation of pensions, and social welfare rates more generally. This process also included discussion with representatives of the community and voluntary sector at the Pre-Budget Forum in July 2019, as well as at bilateral meetings with stakeholders.
The outcome of these discussions was considered, and in consultation with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, the Department has developed proposals for setting a formal benchmark for State Pension Contributory payments and the indexation of future changes in pension rates of payment.
The approach developed, known as the “smoothed earnings ” approach, aims to ensure that the relative value of welfare payments compared to market earnings would be maintained over time and that, in the short-term, the real value, or purchasing power, of these payments would be protected.
This commitment was reiterated in the Roadmap for Social Inclusion which also outlined a potential approach for benchmarking and indexing pension rates.
Finally, the Pensions Commission report also examined the issue of benchmarking pension rates and has endorsed implementation of the “smoothed earnings ” approach. The recommendations of the Pensions Commission are being considered.
My Department has also committed to examining a benchmarking and indexation approach for working age payments.
I am acutely aware of the increase in consumer prices in recent months, especially the increase in fuel and other energy prices.
In response the Government acted early to address these challenges. To help mitigate the effects of these rising costs, the Government announced a package of measures in February, which will have a positive impact on the incomes of all households in our country.
This package included a lump sum of €125 to all households in receipt of the Fuel Allowance payment, which was paid to social welfare recipients in March. This week, a further lump sum payment of €100 will be paid to these households.
Taken together with the €5 increase in Fuel Allowance introduced as part of Budget 2022, this means that low-income households will see an increase of 55% in Fuel Allowance support provided during this Fuel season compared to last season. In conjunction with the electricity costs emergency benefit payment, such households will receive over €600 in additional energy supports this year. The Deputy will also be aware of the measures taken by the Minister for Finance to reduce duties on fuel and retain the low level of VAT on hospitality services. The Minister for Transport has also reduced public transport fares by 20%.
These measures are in addition to others introduced as part of Budget 2022 - including the largest social welfare budget package in 14 years - and are more expansive than measures introduced in most other countries.
The Government will continue to monitor this situation closely.
508. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will commit to delivering a pension at 65 years of age; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18811/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn February 2021, I introduced the "Benefit Payment for 65 year olds" in line with the Programme for Government commitment, to provide a benefit payment for people who are aged 65 and who are required to retire, or who chose to retire, without a requirement to sign on, engage in activation measures or be available for and genuinely seeking work. This new payment was designed specifically to bridge the gap for people who retire from employment or self-employment at 65 years of age but who do not qualify for the State Pension until age 66.
The Pensions Commission was established in November 2020 to examine the sustainability of the State Pension system and the Social Insurance Fund, in fulfilment of a Programme for Government commitment. The Commission was an independent body comprised of knowledgeable and experienced academics, pension experts, members of civil society and representatives of workers and employers. Once it completed its work and fulfilled its obligations, the Commission was dissolved. The Commission's Report was published on 7th October 2021. The report, Technical Sub-Committee's working papers and submissions made to the Pensions Commission are available on the website, pensionscommission.gov.ie.
The Pensions Commission's Report is a comprehensive report that takes account of an assessment of various analyses of population, labour force and expenditure projections; an examination of international approaches; and responses to an extensive consultation process. It has established that the current State Pension system is not sustainable into the future and that changes are needed and it has set out a wide range of recommendations.
In the interests both of older people and future generations of older people, the Government is considering the comprehensive and far reaching recommendations in the Pensions Commission’s Report very carefully and holistically. My officials are examining each of the recommendations and consulting across Government through the Cabinet Committee system. The views of the Joint Committee on Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands and the Commission on Taxation and Welfare are being considered as part of these deliberations. Following detailed consideration of all of this in the round, I intend bringing a recommended response and implementation plan to Government in the coming weeks.
It is clear from the Commission's work that State Pension reform is necessary and it is complex. It would be a strategic risk not to plan and provide for projected demographic changes, not least in terms of income adequacy for older people. The State Pension is the bedrock of the pension system in Ireland. It is extremely effective at ensuring that our pensioners do not experience poverty. This Government is committed to ensuring that this remains the case for current pensioners, those nearing State Pension age and today’s young workers including those who are only starting their careers.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
509. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Social Protection if her Department in conjunction with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment will establish a skills database in order that Ukrainian refugees arriving in Ireland can be matched with suitable employment. [15037/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra510. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider setting up a skill set database to match Ukrainian refugees with prospective employers. [18472/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 509 and 510 together.
The Government is committed to providing emergency support to meet the immediate needs of those fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine. My Department is working alongside other relevant departments in facilitating full access to the labour market for those arriving from Ukraine, as guaranteed under the EU’s Temporary Protection Directive. Currently employment services are being provided to match Ukrainians in Ireland who have fled the war with prospective employers.
Intreo employment services are providing assistance to those arriving from Ukraine as they seek employment in the Irish labour market in Intreo Offices and through jobsireland.ie. A dedicated section on www.jobsireland.ie has been developed providing information on employment supports and opportunities and a frequently asked questions page for newly arrived Ukrainians. This information is available in both Ukrainian and Russian and includes video tutorials on CV and interview preparation, and how to register and apply for vacancies on JobsIreland.
Ukrainians seeking employment can access the service directly, to upload details of their skills and experience for matching with available employment opportunities. The resources and job opportunities available are also promoted through social media in Ukrainian and Russian. Employers across all sectors who wish to support Ukrainians through provision of employment opportunities, are requested to register on www.jobsireland.ie to advertise vacancies. This will enable Intreo Employment Services Officers to match the skills of those seeking employment with available work opportunities.
My Department has also been organising employment support engagement events specifically for Ukrainians to gather information on their education and skills and to provide information on vacancies and jobs. To date well over 5,000 Ukrainians have attended these events.
I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.
511. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons availing of the fuel allowance by main social welfare payment; her plans to review eligibility and payment rate for the scheme, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24677/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Fuel Allowance is a payment of €33.00 per week for 28 weeks (a total of €924 each year) from October to April, at an estimated cost of €366 million in 2022. The purpose of this payment is to assist qualifying households with their energy costs. The allowance represents a contribution towards the energy costs of a household. It is not intended to meet those costs in full. Only one allowance is paid per household.
The number of persons availing of the Fuel Allowance payment by main social welfare payment at the end of December 2021 is as follows:
|
Primary Payment |
Number in Receipt of Fuel Allowance |
|
Deserted Wife's Benefit |
2,721 |
|
Widow/er's Non-Contributory Pension |
846 |
|
Disability Allowance |
78,177 |
|
Invalidity Pension |
16,777 |
|
State Pension (Contributory) |
78,378 |
|
State Pension (Non-Contributory) |
54,640 |
|
Widow's Pension (Contributory) |
41,362 |
|
Long-term Jobseeker's Allowance/Farm Assist |
46,119 |
|
One-Parent Family Payment |
40,429 |
|
Community Employment Scheme |
8,059 |
|
Other Schemes |
7,353 |
|
TOTAL |
374,861 |
The Government is committed to protecting vulnerable households from the impact of energy costs through a combination of supports, energy efficiency awareness initiatives and investment in programmes to improve the energy efficiency of the housing stock.
As part of the overall welfare budget package of €600m in increases secured for 2022, I was pleased to be able to increase the Fuel Allowance payment by €5 per week effective from Budget night. I also increased the weekly income threshold for Fuel Allowance by €20. Furthermore, with effect from the start of the next fuel season, the qualifying period for Jobseeker’s and Supplementary Welfare Allowance recipients to access the Fuel Allowance payment will be reduced from 15 to 12 months.
The Government has, therefore, implemented significant expansions in relation to Fuel Allowance through Budget 2022.
To further help mitigate the effects of rising costs, the Government has announced significant additional expenditure which will make a positive impact on the incomes of all households in our country. As part of the measures an additional lump sum payment of €125 was paid to eligible Fuel Allowance recipients in March and a further additional lump sum payment of €100 is due to be paid this week.
This means that low-income households will see an increase of 55% in Fuel Allowance support provided during this Fuel Allowance season compared to last season. A recipient household which would have received €735 in fuel season 2020/2021 would see an increase of €404 to €1,139 in Fuel Allowance payments in fuel season 2021/2022. When taken in conjunction with the electricity costs emergency benefit payment, such a household would have received over €600 in additional targeted Government supports over the course of this fuel season. €600 is the equivalent of over 18 weeks' additional fuel allowance, at current rates.
While the Department's schemes are reviewed on an ongoing basis, the provision of any further additional supports such as widening the eligibility criteria or further increasing the rate of Fuel Allowance would have cost implications and could only be considered while taking account of the overall budgetary context and the availability of financial resources.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
512. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if a specialist consultant report is required in addition to a letter from a general practitioner which clearly outlines a permanent incapability to work in the context of deciding whether a person is permanently incapable of work; if a specialist consultant report carries more weight than a report by a general practitioner when deciding if an applicant is permanently incapable of work; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24687/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn general, for applications to the illness & disability schemes which require assessment of capacity for work, all efforts are made by my medical review and assessment service, to provide decisions based on submitted information from the customer and medical reports by her/his general practitioner.
In cases where medical opinion cannot be established based on the general practitioner’s report and where the customer is receiving treatment by a specialist or consultant, their report provides further clarity and objectivity which is helpful in making informed decisions regarding permanent incapacity for work.
The Medical Review and Assessment Service does not seek a specialist/consultant report where it is clear to the service that the condition concerned results in severe mental or physical restrictions; however, there are many chronic conditions which are amenable to stabilisation or improvement with specialist care and may enhance the capacity for return to suitable work.
I hope this clarifies matters for the Deputy.
513. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Social Protection the timeframe for her decision on whether to accept the recommendations in the report of the Commission on Pensions; if she will accept in full the recommendations made concerning long-term carers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24696/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government acknowledges the important role that carers play and is fully committed to supporting them in that role. Accordingly, the current State Pension (Contributory) system already includes a comprehensive range of measures including PRSI Credits, Homemaker's Disregards and HomeCaring Periods to recognise caring periods outside of paid employment in the calculation of a pension payment.
The Programme for Government “Our Shared Future” includes a commitment to examine options for a pension solution for carers, the majority of whom are women, particularly those of incapacitated children, in recognition of the enormous value of the work carried out by them.
The Pensions Commission was established in November 2020 to examine the sustainability of the State Pension system and the Social Insurance Fund. The Commission's terms of reference included consideration of how people who have provided long-term care for incapacitated dependents can be accommodated within the State Pension system.
The Pensions Commission's Report was published on 7th October 2021. It established that the current State Pension system is not sustainable into the future and that changes are needed. The report set out a wide-range of recommendations, including enhanced pension provision for long-term carers.
In the interests both of older people and future generations of older people, the Government is considering the comprehensive and far reaching recommendations in the Pensions Commission's Report very carefully and holistically. My officials are examining each of the recommendations and consulting across Government through the Cabinet Committee system. The views of the Joint Committee on Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands and the Commission on Taxation and Welfare are being considered as part of these deliberations. I intend bringing a recommended response and implementation plan to Government in the coming weeks.
It is clear from the Commission's work that State Pension reform is necessary and it is complex. It would be a strategic risk not to plan and provide for projected demographic changes, not least in terms of income adequacy for older people. The State Pension is the bedrock of the pension system in Ireland. It is extremely effective at ensuring that our pensioners do not experience poverty. This Government is committed to ensuring that this remains the case for current pensioners, those nearing State Pension age and today’s young workers including those who are only starting their careers.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
514. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will commit to a review of the income disregard in the means test for both the carer's allowance and the disability allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24697/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn 2022 spending on Illness, Disability and Carers will be an estimated €4.9 billion. This represents 21.1% of my Department’s total expenditure for the year. Since 2015 there has been a significant increase in the number of people supported under these schemes:-
- The number of people claiming Carer’s Allowance and Carer’s Benefit has increased by 42% and the cost of the schemes has increased by 52%.
- The number of people claiming Disability Allowance has increased by 28% and the cost of the scheme has increased by 41%.
As of March there were 90,859 recipients of Carer's Allowance and the estimated expenditure on Carer's Allowance in 2022 is approximately €990 million.
As of March there were 155,542 recipients of Disability Allowance and the estimated expenditure on Disability Allowance in 2022 is almost €1.9 billion.
Both the Carer’s Allowance and Disability Allowance payments are part of the system of social assistance supports that provide payments based on an income need. The means test plays a critical role in determining whether or not an income need arises as a consequence of a particular contingency – such as unemployment, disability or caring. This ensures that the recipient has a verifiable income need and that resources are targeted to those who need them most.
Since my appointment as Minister for Social Protection, supporting carers and people with disabilities has been a key priority for me. In this context I have already reviewed and analysed the disregards in relation to both schemes.
In this year’s Budget, I made significant changes to the Carer’s Allowance means test.
- The capital/savings disregard for the Carer’s Allowance means assessment is being increased from €20,000 to €50,000, aligning it with that which applies for Disability Allowance.
- For carers who work, I have increased the weekly income disregard from €332.50 to €350 for a single person, and from €665 to €750 for carers with a spouse/partner.
These are the first changes that have been made to the Carer’s Allowance means test in 14 years.
With regard to the Disability Allowance disregard the following changes have been made
- An increase to the general weekly means disregard entry point for Disability Allowance from €2.50 to €7.60. The effect of this measure will be to increase the weekly rate of payment by up to €5.10 per week for Disability Allowance recipients who have means.
- An increase in the earnings threshold above which means is fully assessed - by €25 from €350 to €375 per week for Disability Allowance.
This builds on the Budget 2021 measure where I increased the disregard from €120 to €140. Prior to this there had been no changes to the Disability Allowance disregard since 2006.
I will continue to keep the range of supports available to carers and people with disabilities under review. However, any improvements or additions to these supports can only be considered in an overall budgetary context and in the light of available financial resources.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
515. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Social Protection the status of the application of Catherine's Law for a person (details supplied) who has been stripped of the disability allowance due to a Ph.D scholarship; the measures that will be put in place to prevent this situation in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24699/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe person concerned was disallowed Disability Allowance from 26 September 2018, as their means were higher than the statutory limit. Upon request, a Departmental review was undertaken in October 2018 and the decision was upheld. The person in question appealed the decision to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office (SWAO). The appeal was disallowed by an Appeals Officer on 27 February 2019.
Further representations were received by the SWAO and in July 2019, the Appeals Officer reviewed all of the evidence on file in light of the correspondence received and was satisfied that a revision of the decision was not warranted. Accordingly, the original decision of 27 February 2019 was upheld and the customer was made aware of the decision in August 2019.
Regulations signed which exclude scholarship stipends for PhD students from the Disability Allowance means test, came into effect from 1st September 2020 which will serve to ensure that this issue will not arise in respect of future applications.
Customers that were disallowed Disability Allowance due to the stipend payment prior to 1st September 2020 may complete a new application form and it will be processed in the normal manner. The person concerned has been in touch with the Department and a Disability Allowance application form has been posted to their home address.
A completed application form for DA must be submitted to the Department in order to have eligibility checked and a formal decision made on entitlement.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
516. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection if a late invalidity pension appeal will be accepted from a person (details supplied) in County Kerry following the submission of additional information; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24763/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that the person concerned submitted additional information to the Appeals Office on 19 April 2022 following correspondence from that Office stating that their partial capacity benefit appeal would not be accepted because it was received outside the statutory 21 days time period.
Following consideration of this additional information a letter issued to the person concerned on 28 April 2022 confirming that a late appeal would not be accepted. The person concerned was advised that they may request a review from the Department of Social Protection of the Deciding Officer's decision at any stage.
I am also advised that should the person concerned be unhappy with the outcome of the Department's review they may then appeal that decision to the Appeals Office within 21 days of the issuing of the decision.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
517. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection the status of a PPS number for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24781/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm that my Department has allocated a Personal Public Service Number (PPSN) to the person referred to by the Deputy.
A letter issued to him on 12th May 2022 providing him with his PPSN.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
518. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider introducing paid maternity leave for women working on farms; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24805/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraEmployment rights matters including maternity leave provisions come within the remit of my colleague, the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
My Department provides support to women, through the maternity benefit scheme, where they are on maternity leave from their employment and where they satisfy the social insurance contribution and any other scheme specific criteria for eligibility.
Self-employed women, including those engaged in farming, and who are self-employment contributors can qualify for maternity benefit once they satisfy the social insurance contribution and any other scheme specific criteria for eligibility.
Due to the nature of self-employment, the maternity benefit scheme eligibility condition of requiring certification from the woman's employer that she is entitled to maternity leave does not apply in the case of self-employed applicants for the scheme.
I trust that this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
519. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider introducing pension benefits for women working on farms; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24806/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraSpouses who are actively engaged in a commercial partnership, including the operation of a farm, are treated as individual self-employed contributors in the social welfare code. In these cases both spouses are liable to pay PRSI (Class S) contributions which may entitle them to certain benefits such as the State Pension.
Provision also exists for people to have their partnership recognised retrospectively on provision of appropriate evidence that a commercial partnership existed for the period in question. When a partnership is recognised retrospectively, both partners incur a liability to pay self-employed PRSI for the years in question and build up a social insurance record which will be used in determining their entitlement to social welfare benefits.
However, Section 110 (1) of the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act 2005 restates a condition in earlier social welfare legislation that in order to qualify for a State Pension (Contributory) a self employed contributor must have paid at least one year’s self employment contributions prior to reaching age 66.
Those with few or no PRSI contributions paid over the years may instead qualify for the State Pension (Non-Contributory), which is a means-tested pension, financed by the Exchequer, and paid up to 95% of the maximum rate of the State Pension (Contributory).
The Pensions Commission was established in November 2020 to examine the sustainability of the State Pension system and the Social Insurance Fund. The Commission was an independent body comprised of knowledgeable and experienced academics, pension experts, members of civil society and representatives of workers and employers.
The Pensions Commission's Report was published on 7th October 2021. The report is a comprehensive report that takes account of an assessment of various analyses of population, labour force and expenditure projections; an examination of international approaches; and responses to an extensive consultation process. It established that the current State Pension system is not sustainable into the future and that changes are needed.
In the interests both of older people and future generations of older people, the Government is considering the comprehensive and far reaching recommendations in the Pensions Commission's Report very carefully and holistically. My officials are examining each of the recommendations and consulting across Government through the Cabinet Committee system. The views of the Joint Committee on Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands and the Commission on Taxation and Welfare are being considered as part of these deliberations. I intend bringing a recommended response and implementation plan to Government in the coming weeks.
The State Pension is the bedrock of the pension system in Ireland. It is extremely effective at ensuring that our pensioners do not experience poverty. This Government is committed to ensuring that this remains the case for current pensioners, those nearing State Pension age and today’s young workers including those who are only starting their careers.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
520. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Social Protection if it is possible to remove blank years from a person's contributions history if residing and working in another State, given the impact of this on the total contributions average; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24864/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder European Union regulations, the insurance records of other Member States can be combined to satisfy the 520-contribution condition and give entitlement to a proportional or pro rata pension.
The rate of entitlement is based on the proportion of Irish full-rate social insurance contributions to the person’s total combined Irish and EU social insurance contributions. The greater the number of Irish contributions paid by a person, the higher their weekly rate of EU pro rata State pension entitlement. Conversely, a greater amount of full-rate EU contributions would yield a lower rate of pro rata pension.
In January 2018, the Government announced an Interim Total Contributions Approach (Interim TCA) to calculate the entitlement of pensioners who reached State Pension Age on or after 1 September 2012 (i.e. those born on or after 1 September 1946) and who had a reduced rate pension entitlement based on post Budget 2012 rate bands.
From April 2019, all new State Pension (Contributory) applications are assessed under all possible rate calculation methods, including both the Interim TCA and the Yearly Average approach, with the most beneficial rate paid to the pensioner.
Social security provisions have existed in EU law for more than 30 years, and are contained in Regulations (EC) No 883/2004 and 987/2009. As such, Ireland and other EU Member States are bound to abide by these regulations as they are applied to pension payments. Social insurance contributions made in other EU countries may be used to determine eligibility for contributory pensions, but cannot be used to increase the rate of payment. Any changes to this system would have a significant impact on the Social Insurance Fund and consequently the Exchequer.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
521. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection if in-person medical assessments have resumed for the disablement benefit; if not, the reason therefor; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24865/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am pleased to inform the Deputy that where appropriate in-person assessments resumed since the 21/03/2022. Cases are being scheduled on the basis of clinical priority since this date.
It should be noted that, as was the case pre-pandemic, the scheduling of in-person assessment centres depends on the number of individual cases ready for scheduling in that location. Plans are in place to schedule in-person centres for Disablement Benefit in June 2022.
In addition to this my department are continuing to conduct desk assessment of Disablement Benefit cases where appropriate.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
522. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the extent to which the waiting time for a decision in respect of applications for various social welfare payments has been shortened; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24891/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra525. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the extent to which waiting times for payments in respect of means-tested applications compare with contribution related payments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24894/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 522 and 525 together.
The following means test based schemes are assessed in terms of operational performance:
- State Pension (Non-Contributory)
- Jobseeker's Allowance
- One-Parent Family Payment
- Supplementary Welfare Allowance Total
- Carer's Allowance
- Disability Allowance and
- Household Benefits.
The following schemes which are based on PRSI contributions are also assessed:
- State Pension (Contributory)
- Widow(er)'s Contributory Pension
- Jobseeker's Benefit
- Maternity Benefit
- Paternity Benefit
- Invalidity Pension
- Illness Benefit and
- Occupational Injury Benefit.
The attached tabular statement below outlines the agreed target and metric for each scheme, along with the average targets achieved in March 2022 and March 2021.
|
Scheme |
Target |
Metric |
Target Performance March 2022 |
Target Performance March 2021 |
|
State Pension (Non-Contributory) |
75% |
In 12 Weeks |
77% |
75% |
|
Jobseeker's Allowance |
90% |
In 6 Weeks |
97% |
97% |
|
One-Parent Family Payment |
90% |
In 10 Weeks |
99% |
98% |
|
Supplementary Welfare Allowance Basic |
90% |
In 1 Week |
90% |
95% |
|
Carer's Allowance |
75% |
In 11 Weeks |
92% |
95% |
|
Disability Allowance |
75% |
In 10 Weeks |
92% |
95% |
|
Household Benefits |
90% |
In 4 Weeks |
99% |
100% |
|
Scheme |
Target |
Metric |
Target Performance March 2022 |
Target Performance March 2021 |
|
State Pension (Contributory) |
90% |
By date of entitlement |
94% |
94% |
|
Widow(er)'s Contributory Pension |
90% |
In 6 Weeks |
92% |
97% |
|
Jobseeker's Benefit |
90% |
In 3 Weeks |
96% |
94% |
|
Maternity Benefit |
90% |
By due date |
94% |
92% |
|
Paternity Benefit |
90% |
By Commencement of leave |
90% |
90% |
|
Invalidity Pension |
90% |
In 10 Weeks |
86% |
94% |
|
Illness Benefit |
90% |
In 1 week |
83% |
75% |
|
Occupational Injury Benefit |
90% |
In 1 week |
52% |
50% |
523. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the extent to which applicants with insufficient contributions to qualify for the State pension (contributory) might have their cases reviewed with the possibility of a pro rata payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24892/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe State Pension (Contributory) is a PRSI-based pension, financed by contributions made by current workers and their employers, and paid to pensioners, at a rate based upon their PRSI record when working. A person is required to have a minimum of 520 paid reckonable PRSI contributions in order to qualify for the State Pension (Contributory). As the actuarial value of the State Pension is currently estimated at approximately €380,000, it is reasonable to require people claiming a contributory pension to have made at least 10 years of paid contributions over the term of their working life.
While it was lower in the past when PRSI coverage was less widespread, legislation was introduced in 1997 to increase this threshold to 520 weeks, or 10 years of contributions. A fifteen year period was allowed pass between that legislation being enacted and the threshold being raised to this level, which would have been sufficient for most people to achieve the required contributions.
The social welfare system is primarily a contingency-based system, with entitlement based on a number of defined contingencies such as sickness, unemployment, old age or widowhood.
There are two basic principles which underpin the Irish social insurance system.
Firstly there is the contributory principle. Under this principle there is a direct link between the PRSI contributions that a person has paid and entitlement to a varying range of benefits and pensions. Where a person has sufficient PRSI contributions, then benefits and pensions may be paid as of right, where a particular contingency arises and without a means test.
Secondly there is the solidarity principle. Under this principle the benefits and pensions that are paid are not directly related to the amount of PRSI contributions paid by insured persons. PRSI contribution income is instead redistributed to support contributors who are more vulnerable. In this regard, it should be noted that some PRSI contributors do not experience all of the contingencies during their life. For example, one contributor may never require access to Invalidity Pension whereas it may be a crucial support for another.
It should be noted that if a person does not satisfy the conditionality to qualify for State Pension (Contributory), s/he may qualify for the means-tested State Pension (Non-Contributory), the maximum rate of which is over 95% of the maximum rate of the State Pension (Contributory). While it is means-tested, there are very significant disregards which are to the benefit of claimants, and a significant majority of such pensioners are paid at the full rate. Alternatively, an Increase for a Qualified Adult (IQA) is paid, generally, where a pensioner has an adult dependent (e.g. a spouse, civil partner or cohabitant who is financially dependent upon him/her), who does not have enough contributions to claim a maximum rate State Pension (Contributory) in his/her own right. The payment rate for the IQA is up to 90% of a full contributory pension. The most advantageous payment for a pensioner will depend upon their individual circumstances.
As the bedrock of the pension system in Ireland, the State Pension is very effective at ensuring that our pensioners do not experience poverty. This Government is committed to ensuring that this remains the case for current pensioners, those nearing State Pension age and today’s young workers including those who are only starting their careers.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
524. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the degree to which she and her office continue to ensure the making of a basic payment to applicants of social welfare payments while the primary application is being processed in order to alleviate hardship; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24893/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe supplementary welfare allowance (SWA) scheme is the safety net within the overall social welfare system in that it provides assistance to eligible people in the State whose means are insufficient to meet their needs and those of their dependents. Supports provided under the SWA scheme can consist of a basic weekly payment, a weekly or monthly supplement in respect of certain expenses, as well as single exceptional needs payments (ENPs) and urgent needs payments (UNPs).
The basic supplementary welfare allowance provides immediate assistance for those in need who are awaiting the outcome of a claim or an appeal for a primary social welfare payment or do not qualify for payment under other State schemes.
I wish to assure the Deputy that the SWA scheme is kept under review to ensure that it continues to support those most in need of assistance. Any person who considers they may have an entitlement to an exceptional or urgent needs payment are encouraged to contact their local Intreo Centre. There is a National Intreo Contact Centre in place - 0818-405060 - which will direct callers to the appropriate office.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
526. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of social welfare appeals being determined on a weekly basis; the number of appeals arising each week; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24895/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements.
I am advised by the Chief Appeals Officer that in 2021, 24,820 appeals were registered and 23,929 were finalised. Of those finalised, 16,567 were decided by Appeals Officers, 6,462 were revised decisions made by my Department in favour of the appellant and 900 appeals were withdrawn.
The corresponding figures for January - April 2022 were 8,479 appeals registered and 7,779 appeals finalised. Of those finalised, 5,430 were decided by Appeals Officers, 1,921 were revised decisions made by my Department in favour of the appellant and 428 were withdrawn.
The number of appeals on hand at the end of April 2022 was 7,253.
The attached table sets out the number of appeals registered and finalised in 2021 and for the period January to April 2022 and the average weekly statistics for both.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
Annual and Weekly Appeals Statistics
|
Year |
2021 |
|
January to April 2022 |
|
|
Total |
Weekly Average |
Total |
Weekly Average |
|
|
Registered |
24,820 |
477 |
8,479 |
499 |
|
Finalised |
23,929 |
460 |
7,779 |
458 |
|
Appeals Officer decisions |
16,567 |
319 |
5,430 |
319 |
|
Revised decisions |
6,462 |
124 |
1,921 |
113 |
|
Withdrawn |
900 |
17 |
428 |
25 |
