Willie Penrose (Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 232: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her response to the recent report of the Pensions Ombudsman, which included particular criticism of employers in the health sector; the action she intends to take arising from the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37197/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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My Department administers two superannuation schemes for public health sector employees, the nominated health agencies superannuation scheme and the voluntary hospitals superannuation scheme. The Health Service Executive administers the local government superannuation scheme for its employees.

Public health sector scheme members and pensioners have a right to appeal the trustees' determination of superannuation benefits and/or liabilities. The Department of Health and Children circular 21/2004 of 12 May 2004-Pensions Ombudsman- procedures for internal resolution of disputes refers.

Cases that are presented through an internal resolution of disputes process under the Pensions Ombudsman legislation can, by reason of complexity, require thorough investigation and communication with other parties. The report refers to cases dealt with in 2004. I can confirm that all timeframes in relation to dealing with queries and appeals under the IRD process are being met in the two schemes administered by my Department. However, I am aware of the reference drawn by the Pensions Ombudsman to the health and education sectors and to assure good public management, my Department has contacted superannuation offices in the public health sector and emphasised the need to meet the requirements of the internal resolution of disputes process.