Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I accept the response of the Minister in regard to the technical issues related to the transfer of pensions and pension rights when one moves from one company to another, and that recognition of the past working service is enshrined in pension rights. I accept the technical aspects of the amendments to rectify that to ensure rights are protected. I acknowledge the opportunity the Minister has taken to elaborate on the broader picture of superannuation and pay, specifically performance related pay. It is something the public and many in here abhor. I note what he said in that regard.

The Minister has said that he thinks this issue will be dealt with, that it must be dealt with, that he expects it will be dealt with and he will instruct the board to deal with it. I take from that therefore that no legislation will be brought into the House to give effect to any future pay for those under contract currently. Perhaps the Minister will confirm this during debate tonight or tomorrow. Effectively, he is saying this issue is being put on the long finger and the new board will be asked to look at ways and means of addressing it. However, no indication is being given as to what reporting structure will be put in place so Members can be assured the matter will be dealt with effectively or that a timescale will be put in place under which these conditions for employees can be retracted.

Is this proposal only for future employees? I would imagine it cannot be retrospective, but will the Minister confirm that? It is incumbent on the Minister, having made public pronouncements that if he had charge over this process since inception, this would not have happened under his watch, to confirm how it will be reversed under his watch. He should do this more definitively than simply say he will give the new larger board this task. I believe the Minister has this responsibility and that he could bring forward proper and effective legislation to deal with the matter and that he should inform the House he will do so.

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