Paddy Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach for selecting this Commencement matter, and I thank the Minister for attending the House to deal with this important issue. The matter has been spoken about over the last number of years. If affects many people within the Department and the Civil Service. The class K PRSI contribution is paid by a large sector of society with no benefit to them. They qualify neither for pension purposes nor for any benefits. During the last Seanad election it also came to light that a large number of full-time councillors, in particular, do not receive any benefit or pension from paying this class K contribution on their annual allowance. The wording of this important matter speaks for itself. The class K contribution does not confer any benefits on a large sector of society who pay it, particularly councillors, who are working hard, and especially those who are working as councillors full-time, are young and have not yet retired. They depend on the councillor salary for their livelihood. I believe they are entitled to some benefits and I hope the Minister can address this in the next budget or the next social welfare Bill.