Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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462. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will support former Aer Lingus workers (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35545/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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​An agreed solution was implemented to address the IASS pension funding problems earlier this year. The solution that has been implemented is a matter for the pension scheme trustee, the companies participating in the scheme, the scheme members and the Pensions Authority. My Department facilitated the establishment of an Expert Panel to examine and address issues that arose during the negotiations between the parties.

This is a very difficult issue which was the subject of long and protracted discussions over a number of years.  I am acutely aware of the very negative consequences caused by the problems in the IASS scheme for all its members.  However, the reason for the State having any role at all in this private pension scheme was to facilitate an outcome which, although not ideal, was preferable than the alternatives, including the likelihood of a wind-up of the scheme.

As this issue is now the subject of legal proceedings, it would be inappropriate for me to comment any further on the matter.