Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes, it is another anomaly in the retirement rules. Many people will want to work beyond the age of 65 because of the significant deficit in public and private pensions. The whole loss of experience in the public and private sector makes the case for allowing people to work beyond 65. Another reason to allow it is because people are living longer. It has been pointed out that many people want to pursue other activities when they retire. Many of them make fantastic contributions to business, local communities and charitable causes.

Many of them decide to go overseas and work with some of the NGOs. Against what Senator White is trying to achieve is the whole issue of opening up opportunities for our young people. Some may agree and some may disagree. A poll was carried out by Journal.ieon Senator White's proposal. Some 49% were against it, 25% were for it and 24% were in the "don't know" category. The jury is out on it but the whole pensions area and the issue of retirement age require further discussion. Following our deliberations this evening, I hope the Bill will remain on the books and that there will be further opportunities to tease out the matter. I welcome the work of the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Burton, with the interdepartmental group. This is the way to go and all Departments should be involved. I hope that in years to come people will be able to work beyond the age of 65 if they so wish.