Robert Troy
Question:806. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will review the entitlement for a qualified adult dependent on a partner’s State pension (details supplied). [27486/23]
View answerTuesday, 13 June 2023
Questions (806)
Written answers
Last September, I announced the largest social protection budget in the history of the State, providing more than €2.2 million in supports. This was in recognition of the pressures facing households due to the increasing cost of living. In addition to the substantial package of supports provided as part of the budget, in February I announced a further €410 million spring bonus package of social protection measures.
The €200 cost-of-living bonus payment made in April is one of these supports. This €200 lump sum was paid for each eligible person who had an entitlement to a primary payment in their own right. The payment was made in the week commencing 24 April to more than 1.2 million people in receipt of long-term social welfare payments at a cost of approximately €260 million.
The Government provided the €200 bonus in April as part of an overall package of measures that has been provided throughout 2022 and into this year. This programme of measures includes both broad measures, such as rate increases, and targeted measures, which support certain groups in society.
Those in receipt of the Increase for a Qualified Adult aged over 66 have the opportunity to apply for the State Pension (non-contributory) which although means-tested, allows for significant disregards to be applied. Recipients of the State Pension (non-contributory) received the €200 cost-of-living bonus payment made in April.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.