Joan Collins (Dublin South Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I support the amendment because this measure blatantly discriminates against women in the context of the pre-1994 period. It must be examined and recommendations made as to how it can be addressed. I agree with previous speakers that there are other anomalies within the pensions system and a body of work needs to be done on that. A previous speaker referred to pensions being averaged out and that there are more bands. That also has an impact on women. We have had women in our office who had an expectation of getting a pension of €230 but it was reduced to approximately €188 because of the change in the banding system. It is primarily women who have been affected by it but men will be affected in the same way in the future. I expect that in 20 or 30 years' time very few people will get the full contributory pension. Most will be getting less than that because of the way the banding system operates.

The Minister could pursue this issue, particularly if he has listened carefully to what people have said. There is a body of work to be examined and he could take this on board in a positive way. I do not know whether he can give a commitment to report back in three months but I certainly believe he should discuss it. I am interested to hear what the Minister has to say on it.

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