Ms Corona Joyce:

On the link between the contributory State pension and non-contributory State pension, we did bring up in our submission the point about having protection for the non-contributory pension. It is currently linked at the top rate of 95%. We would like to see a categorical and stated link between both contributory and non-contributory pensions. It gives clarity to people and a little bit of security.

Another point which has come up in discussions is that the proposal is linked to the CPI, consumer price index, increase and then average wages. What will be the impact if that decreases? What will be the knock-on effect for the non-contributory State pension as well? We are talking about a minimum protection for both, particularly for the non-contributory pension.

Is there any room for discussion for the 520 contributions threshold? We get calls on that quite frequently. People are unsure if they will be included in the TCA 2012 and we would welcome clarity on that. Regardless of whether 30 years or 40 years is decided in the consultation process, we would like to flag that a clear transitional timeline needs to be put into effect to allow people to acquire voluntary contributions and to make appropriate plans for the future as well. We are looking within two years for that to come into effect.

On auto-enrolment, €20,000 was mentioned as a base figure for opting into the system. For those who may be underneath that income threshold but may wish to avail of auto-enrolment, will it be possible for them or can they expect a State contribution for that? We would welcome more clarity on this.

We have talked about risk management and the State’s role in regulating this area. The more certainty and regulation that people can have for these schemes, the better.