Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 May 2024
189. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social Protection if a State pension (non-contributory) will be approved immediately for a person (details supplied); if pension benefit is being paid to their husband is respect of the person; and if the application will be expedited. [19892/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraState pension non-contributory is a means-tested payment for people aged 66 and over who have a legal right of residence and habitually reside in the state, and who do not qualify for a state pension contributory, or only qualify for a reduced-rate contributory pension based on their social insurance record.
An application for state pension non-contributory was received from the person concerned on 5 January 2024.
On 17 January 2024, a Deciding Officer issued a request for further information from the person concerned. On 13 February 2024, following receipt of the requested information, the Deciding Officer referred the case to a Social Welfare Inspector for their assistance in establishing the weekly means of the person, for pension eligibility purposes.
The inspector has arranged to meet the person concerned on 30 April 2024, with a view to gathering the necessary information in order to establish their state pension entitlement.
On return of the Inspector's report, a Deciding Officer will, without delay, make a determination on the eligibility of the person concerned for state pension non-contributory and the person will be notified of the outcome in writing.
The spouse of the person concerned is not in receipt of an increase in their pension in respect of the person concerned.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
