Pension Provisions

Thursday, 8 September 2022

Ceisteanna (1057, 1173)

Willie O'Dea

Ceist:

1057. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection if her attention has been drawn to the fact that her Department is deeming persons in receipt of approved retirement funds to be still engaged in self-employment and not to be eligible for benefit payment for 65-year-olds; her views on this interpretation of the legislation by her officials; if the matter will be clarified for the many holders of approved retirement funds under 65 years who will in due course be affected by this interpretation of the legislation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42013/22]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Seán Haughey

Ceist:

1173. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Social Protection if she has reviewed the issue regarding class S PRSI contributions arising solely from personal pensions in the context of eligibility for the payment for those over 65 years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44016/22]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Social Protection

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1057 and 1173 together.

The Benefit Payment for 65 year olds is provided under the Jobseeker's Benefit and Jobseeker's Benefit Self-Employed social insurance schemes and decisions are made in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 as amended.

Class S self-employed contributors pay PRSI on a wide variety of self-employment income. These contributions help to ensure that individuals qualify for social welfare benefits, including pensions. Individuals who continue to pay Class S PRSI on an approved retirement fund may not satisfy the conditions for Benefit Payment for 65 year olds.

I agree that this matter warrants consideration and so I have asked officials to examine the matter further and to bring forward proposals on how the issues concerned might best be addressed at an early date.

I hope that this clarifies the position at this time.