Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this issue. The Programme for Government: Our Shared Future states that the planned increase in the State pension age next year will be deferred. This will require an amendment to primary legislation and the Government will bring the necessary legislation before the Oireachtas later this year. I hope there will be cross-party support for this legislation.

The public policy and social issues in regard to funding a sustainable and adequate State pension system are complex. There are very diverse views on how the pensions system should develop. In the interests of older people and future generations of older people, we are taking a fresh look at the issues involved. That is why the programme for Government also commits to establishing a commission on pensions to examine a range of issues including contributions, calculation methods, sustainability, eligibility and intergenerational fairness. The terms of reference for the commission are currently being developed and options for its membership are being considered. I will bring proposals to the Government in that regard as soon as possible.

To be absolutely clear on this, the State pension age will not increase to 67 years in January 2021. People who are approaching the age of 66 should apply for the contributory or non-contributory State pension in the normal way. I will conclude by restating my view that the State pension is the bedrock of the pension system in Ireland. It is extremely effective in ensuring that our pensioners do not experience poverty. The Government is committed to ensuring that this remains the case. I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

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