Kelly welcomes justice for bereaved partners
Kelly welcomes justice for bereaved partners - The Labour Party
Labour’s Alan Kelly TD has welcomed the signing into law of the Social Welfare (Bereaved Partner’s Pension and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2025 by President Higgins on Monday, 21st July. This landmark legislation extends the Widow’s, Widower’s and Surviving Civil Partner’s Contributory Pension to qualified cohabitants for the first time.
Deputy Kelly said:
“This has been a long, hard fight for justice, and I am absolutely delighted that the President has now signed this vital legislation into law. It has been a privilege to work alongside Johnny O’Meara from Toomevara, who has campaigned with dignity, courage and relentless determination after being denied the widow’s pension when his beloved partner Michelle passed away.
“Johnny’s fight was for his children – Aoife, Jack and Tommy – and most of all, it was for Michelle. He took his case all the way through the High Court and the Supreme Court, and in doing so, he has changed the lives of so many families across Ireland. His strength and perseverance have brought about a profound and lasting change in our social welfare system. This legislation should be named after Michelle.
“For me, this is what politics is all about. This is why I entered public life – to represent people, to stand up for what’s right, and to help correct injustices. It was wrong that Johnny O’Meara, who paid taxes and raised three beautiful children with Michelle, was denied the support he was entitled to. That wrong has now been corrected.
“I want to encourage anyone who believes they may be eligible under this new law to contact the Department of Social Protection and apply for their pension now.”