Johnny O’Meara ruling must be the catalyst for change - Deputy Alan Kelly

THE Supreme Court has ruled that the long-time partner of a woman from Toomevara who died in 2021 is entitled to the Widower's Pension despite the fact that the couple were not married and did not have a civil partnership.

The court made its ruling in the case of Toomevara man Johnny O'Meara, and his three children on Monday of last week, after which the decision was welcomed by Tipperary Labour TD, Alan Kelly, who strongly campaigned for justice for the family.

Speaking following the Supreme Court ruling Deputy Kelly said: “I’m personally delighted that my friend and neighbour Johnny O’Meara has been successful with this case and today I am thinking of him and his three children and what they have gone through.

"This case underscores the pressing need to address the disparity in our social protection system. Johnny O'Meara's advocacy has brought attention to a glaring gap that denies essential support to grieving partners in cohabiting relationships.

“It is fundamentally unjust that if a partner of a cohabiting couple passes away, they currently have no entitlement to a widow’s or widower’s pension. This inequity persists, the law must evolve to recognize and support the diverse ways in which families are formed and maintained," Deputy Kelly said.

"Our current system fails to provide adequate protections for those who choose not to marry or those who simply haven't formalised their partnership."

"The concept of family has evolved, and our laws must reflect this reality. It's time for immediate action to rectify this injustice and ensure equal treatment for all families.

“Johnny O’Meara’s case has always been about equality for his family. The lack of welfare supports for unmarried couples is a stain on Irish society. We need to step up and address the situation to provide equality for all families.

"Our social protection system has failed to keep pace with the way people live their lives. It is imperative that we address this gap to uphold the principles of fairness and compassion," Deputy Kelly said.