asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reason for the delay in paying arrears of old age pension due since October 1979 to an applicant (details supplied) in County Kerry.

An application for an increase of old age pension received on 17 July 1979 from the person concerned was investigated and referred to the local pension committee on 28 August 1979. The social welfare officer has recommended that pension at the maximum rate including a living alone allowance should be payable from 17 July 1979. The increased pension will be paid as soon as the decision of the pension committee to that effect has been received. It is understood that the committee is to meet next week when it is expected it will give its decision.