Paul McGrath (Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 559: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the options available for public officials on reaching 65 years of age in view of the Government's recent policy decision concerning retirement age. [26795/05]

Paul McGrath (Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 560: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will review the options available to a public official (details supplied) for this person to remain in their present position. [26796/05]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 559 and 560 together.

Local authority officials who were serving immediately prior to 1 April 2004 are generally required to retire at the age of 65 in accordance with a range of statutory provisions. The Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004 introduced new superannuation and retirement provisions for new entrants appointed to the public service, including local authorities, on or after 1 April 2004. In relation to local authority officials, the Act provides that, with the exception of fire fighters, new entrants appointed on or after 1 April 2004 will not be required to retire on age grounds and that the age of 65 will be the minimum age at which a pension may be paid.