863. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Social Protection why those in receipt of the State pension do not receive a Christmas bonus, and if she will consider a change to this. [46835/24]

The Christmas Bonus announced as part of Budget 2025 provided a 100% increase in the weekly rate of payment for eligible recipients in the first week of December.

The Christmas Bonus was paid to over 1.38 million long-term social welfare recipients. This includes recipients of the State Pension (Contributory) and State Pension (Non-Contributory).

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.