Derek Keating (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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Question 186: To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the circumstances that justify the payment of a large pension, a bonus payment on top of a large pension and a severance package for senior civil servants and public officials; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27390/11]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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In relation to the Civil Service for which I am responsible, I assume the Deputy is referring to the enhanced retirement benefits and severance payment available in certain circumstances for departing Secretaries General (there is no bonus payment as suggested).

A Secretary General is appointed for a fixed term which, as a result of the individual's age at the date of appointment, expires before age 65, and in many cases before age 60. In circumstances where an individual is obliged to retire at the end of his/her term and before age 65, a severance payment and enhanced retirement benefits may be granted, subject to certain conditions, in recognition of the fact that the individual has foregone the right to continue in employment to age 65 and accrue further pension benefits. These terms are designed to encourage younger people to apply for such posts who might otherwise wish to continue working until age 65. These terms are being examined at present.