James Lawless
Ceist:802. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Social Protection if the case of a person (details supplied) will be examined; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15051/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 9 April 2024
Ceisteanna (802)
Freagraí scríofa
The person concerned reached 66 years of age on 11 June 2015.
Following the Government Decision in 2018 to introduce a Total Contributions Approach (TCA) to the calculation of State Pension (contributory), pensioners who reached pension age from September 2012 (i.e., those born on or after 1 September 1946) had their pension reviewed using this method of calculation.
The pension entitlement of the person concerned was reviewed. The pension rate payable from 30 March 2018 increased from 85.11% to 90.43% of the maximum rate state pension (contributory). This pension, currently paid at the weekly rate of €250.80, is the most financially beneficial rate of state pension (contributory) commensurate with the person's social insurance record.
I have arranged for a copy of their record to issue. If the person concerned considers that they have additional contributions or credits that have not been recorded, it is open to them to forward documentary evidence to my Department and their pension entitlement can be reviewed.
It is also open to the person concerned to apply for the state pension (non-contributory) which is a means-tested, residency-based payment for people of pension age. The maximum personal weekly rate is €266.00 which is approximately 96% of the maximum rate of contributory pension. I have also arranged for an application form to issue to the person.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.