Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

As I said to Deputy O'Dea before the break, I would envisage that reviewing the figures would mean going back to Government. I am certainly happy to undertake that. Any time a significant issues related to pensions arises, which is an important issue in society and the wider economy, I would normally bring it to Government. I can certainly undertake to do so.

There are two social welfare Bills each year, the budget Bill and what is often called the spring or summer social welfare Bill. Both Bills give ample opportunity to revisit this particular issue should the need arise. I am happy to give that undertaking. I know the senior officials, who have greater longevity to use a pension term than the Ministers in the Department, would anticipate dealing with the policy in that way. I would be happy to support that. I give that undertaking publicly.