Arthur Spring (Kerry North-West Limerick, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Something else should be highlighted here. There are proposals with regard to what type of levy should be imposed on pensions. This is pertinent for anyone thinking of joining the Civil Service or public service who could earn substantially more in the private sector. If there is a cap on the amount of money that one can earn in wages and pensions, anyone wishing to provide for his family would take the view that the private sector is more of a safe bet and, ultimately, we will end up in a situation whereby people with useful skill sets will not be in the Civil Service. Everywhere we go, we hear that a high level of expertise is needed in the Civil Service. I am keen to hear a comment from the Minister of State.