James Geoghegan
Ceist:438. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11125/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 12 February 2026
Ceisteanna (438)
Freagraí scríofa
To qualify for State pension (contributory), the social insurance contribution record of each applicant is considered from age 16 to age 66, or up to age 70 for those who wish to defer their pension draw down age. This allows for at least 50 years of contributions to be reckonable for pension purposes.
The records of my Department show that the person concerned has 316 paid contributions in Ireland. Credited contributions awarded for periods spent caring were used in the calculation of pension entitlement.
The person concerned had the opportunity to satisfy the required contribution conditions of the pension over the remaining 37 years of their reckonable working life. However, they spent most of this period working outside of Ireland and this is what ultimately impacted on the rate of entitlement.
Any prospective changes to the qualifying conditions of State Penson (contributory) would have to be considered in both an overall policy and budgetary context.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.