As outlined in previous responses, officials from my Department have submitted a business case to the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform to support access to the single public service pension scheme for those researchers who are not currently able to join the scheme. The business case remains under review, and DFHERIS will only be able to progress this matter further when a response is received.
The Deputy may wish to note that my officials agreed with staff and management representatives to refer this matter to the national Public Sector Agreement Group established under Building Momentum prior to the expiration of that agreement. In light of the recent ratification of the new Public Service Agreement, it would be the intention to refer this issue to the new Joint Implementation Committee for their consideration.