Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 323: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the distress that has been caused to retired employees whose access to health insurance schemes has been denied following their retirement; his view on the statement of the Labour Court chairman on 8 November 2001 (details supplied); if he will confirm that he has received representations from a person; the action he proposes to take; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19124/06]

Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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In 2001 the Labour Court made a recommendation to the effect that a mechanism should be put in place to address situations of dispute between retired employees and their former employers. At that time the issue arose in the context of a dispute which related to a workers retirement pension. Subsequently, the 2002 Pensions Act provided for the appointment of the Pensions Ombudsman with the power to investigate complaints in relation to occupational pension schemes.

I am aware that other circumstances of dispute between a retired employee and their former employer can arise, as in the case referred to by the Deputy. I have received representations on allowing former employees access to the Industrial Relations bodies. Consideration is being given as to how this matter might be addressed including any legislative implications which may arise.