Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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479. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection when the Government response to the Pensions Commission Report is expected; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26317/22]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The Pensions Commission’s Report was published on the 7th October 2021. It contained almost 250 pages of analysis, consideration and recommendations. The report established that the current State Pension system is not sustainable into the future and it has set out a recommended approach for Government.

In the interests both of older people and future generations of older people, I can assure the Deputy that the Government is considering the comprehensive and far reaching recommendations in the Commission’s Report very carefully and holistically. My officials are examining each of the recommendations and consulting across Government through the Cabinet Committee system. The views of the Joint Committee on Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands and the Commission on Taxation and Welfare are also being considered as part of these deliberations.

Following detailed consideration of all these inputs and taking on board the views of my Ministerial colleagues, I intend bringing a recommended response and implementation plan to Government in the coming weeks. I accept that this is somewhat later than planned but I am sure that the Deputy will understand that the issues raised and views expressed by the Joint Oireachtas Committee and others require careful consideration. In addition, as the Deputy will also appreciate, the Government and my Department has been centrally involved in the response to the crisis in Ukraine and other important matters in recent weeks.

It is clear from the Commission’s work that State Pension reform is necessary and it is complex. It would be a strategic risk not to plan and provide for projected demographic changes, not least in terms of income adequacy for older people. The State Pension is the bedrock of the pension system in Ireland. It is extremely effective at ensuring that our pensioners do not experience poverty. This Government is committed to ensuring that this remains the case for current pensioners, those nearing State Pension age and today’s young workers including those who are only starting their careers.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.