Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 121: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his proposals to introduce a special saving incentive account type pension scheme as part of proposals to increase pension coverage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5036/08]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 124: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the steps he will take to facilitate women, forced out of employment due to the marriage rule, to avail of contributory pensions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4018/08]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 121 and 124 together.

As the House is aware, I published the Green Paper on Pensions on the 17th October which sets out a comprehensive discussion on the issues relating to both social welfare and occupational pensions. The purpose of the Green Paper is not to recommend any particular approach, but rather to facilitate a debate on the issues and possible approaches to future policy. With regard to private and occupational pensions, the Green Paper discusses approaches for the development of the pension system, largely based on the conclusions of the Pensions Board in its two reports published in 2006, the National Pensions Review and Special Savings for Retirement. These discussions are in the context of criteria ranging from coverage and adequacy to competitiveness. The approaches discussed include maintaining the status quo, the use of SSIA type tax incentives in a pensions context, soft mandatory approaches and mandatory provision. A more prominent role for the social welfare pension in improving retirement income is also considered.

Decisions with regard to future pensions policy will be made in the context of the framework that will be developed after the Green Paper consultation process is completed. I expect the consultation process will be completed by end May 2008 and the framework for future policy will be finalised by the end of the year.