Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
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210. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he is aware of the proposal by the CIÉ group to close off its defined benefit pension scheme for new employees and move them to a defined contribution scheme; if he has concerns about this proposal and the possible worsening of employment rights and standards involved, especially given that some companies in the group continue to struggle to recruit and retain staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32123/25]

Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
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211. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if, in relation to proposals to close off the defined benefit scheme for new CIÉ employees, he is preparing to support a Government letter of comfort to CIÉ workers related to the current benefits and rights of their pension scheme; if any such letter of comfort afforded to workers will effectively underwrite the scheme should any future funding issues arise in their pension scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32124/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 210 and 211 together.

From the outset I would like to clarify that I, as Minister for Transport, have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. However, issues in relation to CIÉ pension schemes are primarily a matter for the trustees of the pension schemes, the CIÉ Group and their employees.

As a commercial semi-state body, CIÉ are responsible for the provision of pension schemes for their employees - this is consistent with the pension arrangements of semi-state bodies.

That being said, I am acutely aware of concerns raised by the members of both CIÉ pension schemes, regarding the lack of pension increases since 2008, especially given the higher cost of living that many are facing.

On Thursday 15 May 2025, I was notified by CIÉ and the Trade Union Group that they have reached a negotiated position on a proposal relating to the issues associated with pension security for current employees at the CIÉ Group of Companies. The proposal also includes provision for long overdue pension in payment increases for ex-employees of the CIÉ Group.

The proposal aims to:

1. Maintain promised benefits for all members of CIÉ Pension Schemes.

2. Provide an increase for eligible CIÉ Pensioners of up to 5%.

I am advised a consultative process with all stakeholders will be conducted over the coming weeks, followed by ballot on the settlement proposal, which will be undertaken by the Trade Union Group.

I welcome the constructive engagement between unions and CIÉ management on this issue. It’s a strong example of proactive and inclusive dialogue that prioritises long-term outcomes for employees and pensioners alike. I acknowledge the work of all parties involved for their positive engagements.

My Department will continue to engage with financial advisors at NewERA, the Pensions Authority, and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Services, Reform and Digitalisation on the matter of bringing CIÉ pensions onto a more stable footing for the benefit of active, and retired scheme members.