Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his comprehensive reply. The most important element of it is in the last paragraph, which relates to the proposed changes. This clearly indicates there is recognition of the need to bring about change. I wish to focus on that. In a previous incarnation, I had some influence on a change in the system from that which prevailed previously, where people with less than an average of 22 contributions over their working life got no pension at all. Those who had more than that, received a full pension. It was decided then it was only just to bring about change and introduce a pro ratapension commensurate with the contributions made.

The problem is that people who for economic reasons returned to work since the downturn now find themselves with five or six years extra spent in the workforce. However, this now disqualifies them from a pension. This should not be the case, because they would have already qualified for a limited pension beforehand. Once they had ten years in the workforce previously, their pension was safeguarded. However, once the extra years of service are included, this extends the period in the workforce over their lifetime, from what would have been ten or 12 years to 40 years, 45 years or above, which reduces the average number of contributions over that period, thereby eliminating their access to a contributory pension.

While the 2020 objective is laudable, I strongly urge that special consideration be given to the fact that these women all gave good service in the economy in their lifetimes. I do not believe it is justified in any way that they will be punished for going back to work when they were, in fact, forced to return to work due to economic circumstances at a later stage.

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