Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 March 2026
352. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Social Protection further to the issuing of contributions under the homemakers scheme for a person (details supplied), if there is entitlement to any payment under the contributory pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21347/26]
View answerThe person concerned was awarded the state pension contributory on 18 March 2026 at the weekly rate of €293.50. This pension was awarded with effect from 1 January 2024, the date the long term carers contributions were introduced. Prior to this date, the person concerned did not have an entitlement to state pension contributory.
The rate of pension awarded equates to 98% of the maximum rate of pension. It is based on their record of 2,027 reckonable contributions and credits which includes 34 years of long term carers contributions, giving a yearly average of 43.
The person concerned was also awarded the over 80 increase of €10.00 per week and the living alone increase of €22.00 per week.
The first payment will issued on Friday 20 March, to their nominated post office. My Department will be in touch with the person concerned in relation to the pension arrears due.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
