John Paul Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

174. To ask the Minister for Social Protection when the Waterford Crystal pensions will be issued to the relevant employees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10380/15]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Officials of the Department are working actively with the Mediator, Unite, the trustees of the scheme and the scheme administrator on the implementation of the agreement. While discussions are continuing on elements of the implementation, it is my intention to ensure that the terms of the agreement are implemented as soon as possible.

The scheme administrator wrote to the members of the scheme on 29 January seeking the consent of each member to the transfer of personal data to the Department of Social Protection, to enable the terms of the agreement to be implemented. I am glad to say that, to date, in excess of 95% of the members have responded to this letter.

When the particulars of the implementation of the agreement are determined and agreed, a further letter will be issued to members who have consented to the transfer of data to the Department to inform them of their entitlement under the agreement. At that stage, the member will be required to sign a "Deed of Release" to the effect that any payment issued under the agreement will be in full and final settlement of any claim a member may have under the scheme. A payment cannot be made until the member signs and returns the "Deed of Release".

I can assure you that every effort is being made by my officials to implement the terms of the agreement as soon as possible.