Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

We then do not expect to have clarity within three months. Let us be clear about what is being asked for. I am asking for estimates of a number of potential costs, including the cost of a 30-year scheme, and the impact on individuals and a comparison of the likely difference between a 30-year contribution scheme and a 40-year contribution scheme in terms of weekly income levels for those affected. These are important facts and I would hope that they would be put into the public realm in advance of legislation. Alternatively, is the Minister telling us that we can expect simply a secret policy on a total contribution approach to magically appear in an item of legislation and then go through that process? Will the Department give any facts and figures regarding the impact of 30 years or 40 years in terms of the Exchequer and the individual and an indication of the Department's perspective on that some time within the next three months?