Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 42: To ask the Minister for Social Protection if he will provide details on the implementation of the national pensions framework; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27888/10]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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The recently published National Pensions Framework is the Government's plan for pension reform. It encompasses all aspects of pensions, including social welfare pensions, private occupational pensions and public sector pension reform. Development of the framework was informed by the range of views raised during the comprehensive consultation process which followed publication of the Green Paper on Pensions. The aim of the framework is to deliver security, equity, choice and clarity for the individual, the employer and the State. It also aims to increase pension coverage, particularly among low to middle income groups and to ensure that State support for pensions is equitable and sustainable.

A technical implementation group was established in May to develop the legislative, regulatory and administrative infrastructure required to put the reforms into operation. It has held two meetings to date. In line with the Government decision, the group is chaired by the Department of Social Protection. The implementation phase is expected to take three to five years. The implementation group is cognisant of the current and emerging economic condition and will conduct extensive consultation on the many aspects of the framework before presenting final options to Government for decision. I am very pleased to be hosting a consultation forum in July which will mark the beginning of this process of engagement.

The group is developing a communications strategy to ensure that all stakeholders and interested parties are kept informed of the progress being made in implementing the framework.