Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 161: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, further to Parliamentary Question 404 of 10 November 2009, the approximate date for the resolution to the discussions on RTÉ pensions; the reason it is inappropriate to answer questions on specific aspects or clauses by elected Members; if he will support the employees in having the reckonable service back-dated. [42377/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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As I stated in my reply to the Deputy's previous question on this issue, approval of any RTÉ superannuation pension scheme is required under Section 91 of the Broadcasting Act 2009. A scheme submitted to me under this section shall, if approved of by me with the concurrence of the Minister for Finance, be carried out by RTÉ in accordance with its terms.

As a matter of general principle, details of ongoing discussions in relation to the approval of superannuation pension schemes are not made public. This is a long-standing practice which has worked well in relation to approving pension schemes and it is not proposed to change it. My Department is continuing to engage, as a matter of priority, with the Department of Finance and RTÉ in respect of those aspects of the scheme and every effort is being made by the three parties to ensure an early resolution of the issues. The matter of reckonable service in respect of this scheme is a matter for RTÉ.