HC Deb 26 February 1917 vol 90 c1693
66. Mr. GINNELL

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he concurs in the decision of the Local Government Board in reducing the old age pension of 5s. a week given since the commencement of the Acts to Christopher Quinn, Coolnagun, Coole pension district, having regard to the fact that this man's family have long been scattered from him and living apart; that he was evicted and left destitute nine years ago; that he, being eighty-four years of age, blind, and having to be fed with a spoon like an infant, a son of his, not bound to support him, has taken him in for this attention; and whether the Acts or the practice under them bars or reduces a pension in these circumstances because the son has some means?

Mr. DUKE

Under Section 2 (1) (d) of the Old Age Pensions Act, 1911, the yearly value of any benefit or privilege enjoyed by a person is to be included as part of such person's means for old age pension purposes. Christopher Quinn is being kept by a son who has a very good farm of 88 acres, which it is estimated should bring in at least £200 a year. In the circumstances the Local Government Board are satisfied that the value of Christopher Quinn's support should be worth well over £31 10s. a year.

Mr. GINNELL

Who supplied the information to the Local Government Board that this man has property when he has none at all—he is absolutely destitute?

Mr. DUKE

I think I have answered the question very fully.