Dominic Hannigan (Meath East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 191: To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans to introduce a cap on the pensions of future Presidents of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24895/11]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Under the current legislative arrangements, the President of Ireland is entitled to a full pension of half pay on leaving office. I will before the end of this month introduce the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme) and Remuneration Bill 2011 which will propose a career averaged rather than final salary pension for a President who is a member of the new Single Scheme. The pension that such a President may accrue will also be subject to a cap of 50% of the pay of the office, to cater for a two-term President. In addition, the Bill provides that abatement will apply for a public service pensioner who takes up a public service position, including the Presidency. Finally, it provides for a reduction in the pay of the President, as well as new members of the judiciary, whose pay rates are determined in legislation.