Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I realise the Minister of State’s script was written before I made the points I made earlier. I repeat: An Post is repudiating section 46(4) of the Post and Telegraphs Service Act 1983 and it has no legislative authority to reinterpret the intent of the Act. It should be complying with section 29(2) of the Pension (Increase) Act 1964 and regulations made under that Act, namely SI 381 of 2002 that applied to the transfer of civil servants pre-vesting day and should continue to apply to them after vesting day. It has applied the terms of a collective agreement to these ex-civil servants when such agreements can only apply to current employees. The line Minister must investigate these breaches of the law.

In note 24 of the annual accounts, a figure of €1.2 billion appears under pensions as an experienced adjustment without any explanation. This has a material impact on the value of the fund and the profits of the company and needs to be fully investigated.

These are pensioners who have no voice at the table when negotiations take place. There has to be engagement with pensioners. We are finding it right across the public service. I appreciate the Minister of State taking the Commencement matter today.