Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 July 2023
285. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the extent to which satisfactory provision continues to be made for those retiring at 65 years of age; the extent of any recent progress in this area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33383/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraBenefit Payment for 65 Year Olds was introduced in line with the Programme for Government commitment to address the position of people who are required to or choose to retire at age 65 before the pension age of 66. The payment is provided for under Jobseeker’s Benefit or Jobseeker’s Benefit (Self-Employed) legislation as appropriate. There were just over 4,000 people receiving this support at the end of May 2023.
A key feature of the payment is that recipients do not have to sign on or partake in activation measures or to be available for and genuinely seeking work to avail of it. Unlike other Jobseeker's Benefit customers, who are paid at a graduated rate according to their previous earnings, recipients of this payment are paid at the maximum personal rate of Jobseeker's Benefit. The personal rate has increased from €208 to €220 as part of Budget 2023.
In relation to recent progress, regulations have been signed in relation to persons with income from an Approved Retirement Scheme (ARF). The regulations provide that a self-employed contributor in receipt of income solely from an ARF is treated the same as a person without income from an ARF when it comes to eligibility for Jobseeker's Benefit (Self-Employed). In both cases the loss of employment by a self-employed person founded on the person's PRSI contributions are relevant determining factors.
Where a person does not qualify for Benefit Payment for 65 Year Olds they may be eligible for support under the means tested Jobseeker's Allowance scheme subject to satisfying the qualifying conditions for that scheme.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
