Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 219: To ask the Minister for Finance the position regarding a scheme (details supplied); the reason for the delay in approving it; the problems relating to the scheme; if all relevant service will be reckonable from the date in February 2009 that the scheme was due to begin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36806/09]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As outlined in my previous reply to the Deputy, the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources has primary responsibility for matters relating to the state body mentioned, including its pension schemes. With regard to pension arrangements, the relevant legislation requires that these be approved by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources with the concurrence of the Minister for Finance.

The position regarding the pension scheme referred to by the Deputy is that officials from my Department are involved in ongoing consultation with officials in the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources about it. Certain aspects must be clarified in order to ensure that the Scheme is in accordance with public service pension policy and with public expenditure policy.

I refer to the specific issue raised by the Deputy as to whether all relevant service will be reckonable from a date in February 2009. Such details of the scheme are a matter in the first instance for the employer to determine and clarify and I am not in a position to advise on this point. It is hoped that, with cooperation from all parties involved, the scheme will be in order for the Ministers to approve in the near future. I can assure you that we are making every effort in this regard.