Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

The point Senator Quinn mentioned about those working taking pensions in the public service is worthy and the Minister could look at it. I made this point when I relinquished a ministerial pension. When I returned to the Oireachtas nine years ago I was surprised that the ministerial pension continued.

Furthermore, there is another anomaly with respect to the Garda State drivers. They all left the job but now I understand a number are back driving Ministers. They are both on pension from the State and receiving remuneration from the State. This is a levelling out situation. Every situation must be scrutinised in a careful manner in this regard because there are those who have and those who have not. In fairness, and against our own situation, we must look at it.

I commend the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, and the Government for what they are doing in this regard. I was pleased to vote for the judicial pay review in the constitutional amendment.