The DHSS has decided once and for all that qualification for the Isle of Man's pension supplement must be based on contributions to the Manx National Insurance Fund.
The Isle of Man Pensioners Association has lobbied for many years for the main criterion to be changed to ten years residency in the Island.
However, after taking independent advice, the department has told the association that agreeing to its request would amount to taking funds from the next generation.
Health Minister Eddie Teare (pictured) says it would also have cost millions of pounds every year: (audio clip)
Broadly speaking the pension supplement is payable to anybody who is normally resident in the Isle of Man and has paid into the Manx National Insurance Fund for at least ten years.
The supplement adds a further 50% to the sum paid in state retirement pension.
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