Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 978: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if her attention has been drawn to a television programme (details supplied), wherein it was alleged that certain irregularities took place in the selling of public sector pension plans in the public sector, particularly involving teachers and nurses; if she has satisfied herself as to the role of the Pension Ombudsman in the discharge of his statutory duties, as far as this matter is concerned; if she has discussed the matter with the Pensions Ombudsman; her views on whether it is appropriate that an inquiry take place with regard to the apparent lack of independent advice and lack of objective analysis in the matter of selling such products; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1652/09]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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Issues in relation to the making of additional voluntary contributions (AVCs) and the purchase of additional service by public servants have been raised with the Pensions Board over a number of years. These have been fully investigated by the Board and no breaches of the Pension Act were found.

Responsibility for public sector pensions rests with the Minister for Finance and other employing departments, while the regulation of the sale of financial products rests with the Financial Regulator. That said, the Pensions Board intends to develop an information booklet dealing with the issue of AVCs for public servants and which will provide information for those choosing between AVCs and added years. The Pensions Ombudsman is, under legislation, independent in the performance of his duties and I understand that he has issued determinations in relation to a number of these cases.