141 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if he will consider increasing the special partial old age contributory pension for self-employed persons who are receiving the half rate pension; and if he will review this matter and progressively bring them in line with other pensioners, in view of the diminishing numbers and cost involved. [2798/01]

142 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the proposals he has to increase payment to those persons in receipt of the special partial old age contributory pension for self-employed persons above the normal budgetary increases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2645/01]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 141 and 142 together.