Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 225: To ask the Minister for Finance if he will report on the implications under equality legislation, or any other implications, for staff in the public sector if his Department sanctions an extension of the term of office of a person (details supplied); if he plans to request an official reply from the governing body of the third level institution concerned before making a decision regarding the extension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16631/05]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As the Deputy will be aware, extending the term of office in the case referred to requires an amendment to the pension scheme of the institution concerned. Such an amendment requires the approval of the HEA together with the consent of the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Education and Science. A proposal to extend the term of office is being considered by my Department in conjunction with the Department of Education and Science. This consideration is based on a request from the HEA which has already approved the amendment proposed by the institution concerned.

In taking my decision I will be looking at all the relevant factors, including the equality aspect. I do not propose to request an official reply from the governing body of the institution concerned. Any direct contact with the institution would be appropriate to the HEA, which in turn comes under the aegis of the Minister for Education and Science.