Lucinda Creighton (Dublin South East, Fine Gael)
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Question 203: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount that was granted in pensions in each of the past five years to individuals who retired early from her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35639/08]

Lucinda Creighton (Dublin South East, Fine Gael)
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Question 204: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount that was spent in each of the past five years on staff who replaced those who took early retirement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35654/08]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 203 and 204 together.

In April 2005, the option of cost neutral early superannuation benefits was made available to serving staff who met the eligibility criteria and those who had resigned on or after 1 April 2004, with an entitlement to preserved superannuation benefits at the time of their resignation. There were no early retirements in 2004

In 2005 there were five retirements under the Cost Neutral Early Retirement Scheme from my Department. The total amount of annual pensions in respect of the five individuals is €82,965.83. Of the five only three have been replaced at an annual cost of €125,325. These costs have increased in subsequent years in line with National pay agreements.

In 2006, two staff members availed of Cost Neutral Early Retirement. The amount of annual pensions in respect of the two individuals was €44,895.22. Only one post was filled at an annual salary of €80,408. These costs have increased in subsequent years in line with National pay agreements

In 2007, one staff member availed of Cost Neutral Early Retirement, with an annual pension of €11,929.76, which will increase in line with National pay agreements. This person was not replaced.

In 2008, five staff members availed of Cost Neutral Early Retirement, with annual pensions amounting to €142,525.88. Only one of the five was replaced at an annual salary of €86,168. These costs will increase in line with future National pay agreements.