O'Cuiv: Budget will not introduce means test for old age pension

Social Protection Minister Eamon O'Cuiv has told the Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party meeting today that the Government has no plans to means-test the contributory old age pension.

Eamon O'Cuiv assured backbenchers that while means-testing may be considered in other areas, the contributory pension would not be affected.

However, although he ruled out cuts of "€20 or €30 a week", he refused to say whether or not there would be some form of a cut, saying that all areas would be looked at.

Fianna Fáil backbenchers have raised concerns about cuts to the old age pension.

Up to eight members said that they will not support the Budget if the pension is cut.