Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy has asked numerous supplementary questions. If the CPI provision was activated, it would have the effect to which the Deputy referred. However, it has not yet been activated. I have not commenced it and it is not my intention to do so in the near future. I left the provision in the legislation to be considered at a future date. Obviously, at a time when there are no increases it makes no difference whether one links pensions with pay increases or the CPI. The issue will fall to be considered in the future when we see normal increases.

Regarding pensioners, there was a formal, established process for the negotiation of a public sector pay deal which was followed in the way it had always been. However, as I was conscious that pensioners were not directly involved, I advised them to form an organisation and, in fairness to them, they did so. I have met that organisation twice, most recently earlier this month. I have assured pensioners that they will have a channel into the next round of discussions through my officials.

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