Cork TD calls for swift passing of Social Welfare Bill

A Cork TD has made an appeal for the swift passing of the Social Welfare (Bereaved Partner’s Pension) Bill 2025.

Aindrias Moynihan, the Fianna Fáil TD for Cork North West, has also gotten confirmation from the Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary, that there has already been 477 applications received from bereaved partners, seeking to access a pension that would be available to them if they had been married or in a civil partnership.

Under the proposed legislation couples who lived together for at least two years with children, or five years otherwise, will be recognised as qualified cohabitants. 

The Bill states that surviving partners who meet this criteria will be treated equally.

The proposed legislation also provides for backdated payments, so those who have been left behind will not lose out after the Bill becomes law.

Mr Moynihan said that the Social Welfare (Bereaved Partner’s Pension) Bill 2025 will put right what has been wrong for too long.

“People dealing with the pain of losing a loved one should not also be burdened with financial stress, especially when they should be entitled to the same supports as a bereaved spouse.

“Too many families have been left in limbo. We know that the law, as it stands, has already been found unconstitutional in certain cases. Now we need to act swiftly to ensure nobody else is left waiting.” 

The Bill also proposes that to be eligible for the payment, there is no limit on the date when the death of a qualified cohabitant occurred, provided the criteria was met at that time and eligibility continues at the date of claim.

The new Bereaved Partner’s (Contributory) Pension will apply from the date of judgment in relevant past cases, while from the date of death in cases after 22 January 2024.

Mr Moynihan added: 

“The way we live our lives has changed, the law now needs to reflect that reality. Committed cohabiting couples deserve the same recognition and the same rights.

“This is about ensuring fairness, equality, and compassion for people who are already going through one of the most difficult times of their lives. 

“I’ll be working closely with my Fianna Fáil colleagues to ensure this Bill completes Committee Stage and the full legislative process as quickly as possible. People have waited long enough. It’s time they got what they’re entitled to.” 

The Bill is scheduled for the Dáil Select Committee Stage on June 25.

Once enacted, the Bill will expand access to the Widow’s, Widower’s and Surviving Civil Partner’s Contributory Pension to include qualified cohabitants – people who were in committed, long-term relationships but were not legally married.