Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

138. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to confirm his recognition of the recent High Court Judgment in respect of the CIÉ 1951 pension scheme; if he will take steps to ensure that the benefits of the 1951 scheme active members will be protected and maintained, and that 1951 scheme pensioners will be awarded their long-awaited pension increase without delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23345/24]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The case in relation to the rules governing the 1951 scheme are currently subject to ongoing legal proceedings before the Commercial Court. The Hearing commenced on 24 May 2022 for 4 days. While original indications were that a judgement would be expected in the Autumn of 2022, the matter was deferred on multiple occasions, with the judgment being delivered on 19 April 2024.

In his judgement, Mr. Justice Mark Sanfey found that both CIÉ and the 1951 Scheme members were obliged to provide funding to the pension scheme to resolve any solvency issues. Justice Sanfey instructed both sides to consider what orders should be made on foot of the judgment ahead of a hearing date on 14th June 2024. The Department continues to engage with CIÉ, and advisors in NewERA in relation to this matter.

Concerning pension increases for CIÉ pensioners, I understand that an increase for pensioners would only be possible when the Schemes are capable of sustaining such increases. Furthermore, any such proposal would be dependent on the advice of the Scheme Actuary at the time an increase is proposed, and is done in agreement with the Trustees of the Schemes.

Accordingly, I have forwarded the aspect of Deputy's question related to an increase in pension payments for 1951 pension scheme members to CIÉ for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

139. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he can confirm that CIÉ will immediately comply with its legal obligations to appoint CIÉ board-nominated members to the statutory CIÉ 1951 Scheme Pensions Committee, pursuant to rule 12 of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23346/24]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport in Ireland.

Issues in relation to Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ) pension schemes are primarily a matter for the trustees of the pension schemes, the CIÉ Group and their employees. This includes matters relating to board-nominated members.

Therefore, I have referred the Deputy's questions to CIÉ for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.