Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael)

Changes to TDs' and Ministers' pensions should take effect from now. This is an issue that is really annoying the public and I agree with them that it is not right.

A review of the Croke Park agreement is imminent and the issue of increments has been raised in that context. In the midst of a recession I, along with others such as CORI, believe it is immoral that increments are awarded to anyone earning over €50,000. I am glad that Oireachtas Members do not get increments and we should consider pausing the payment of increments. Research indicates that a poverty-proof wage for a family of six is €50,000.

Regarding sick pay, I wholeheartedly reject the notion that an employer should pay it.