Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

First, as I pointed out, the Minister has no function in regard to the administration of the scheme. However, I accept what both Deputies have said and I accept the point about the frustration of the members, especially those who have paid into the scheme. People want to know what their pension rights will be when the time comes to draw their pensions.

I want to put on the record that the trustees must represent all sections, and they cannot just represent one part of this. That is the legislation and, under law, they have to do that. I would hope that, with the new proposals, the trustees can use the mechanisms of State to try to resolve this problem. There is a massive deficit of €760 million that has to be dealt with. In March, we are coming to the kick-off of the tourist season. It would be in no one's interest, neither the country's, the company's nor the members', to have a strike. I hope all sides can try to resolve this very serious situation in the best interests of the country and particularly of the members.

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