asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that many primary teachers now on pension are in a bad way financially owing to the increased cost of living and the inadequacy of their pensions; and, if so, whether it is his intention to examine their position with a view to improvement.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Teachers' Pensions.
Mr. Byrne
asked the Minister for Education if he will consider the claims of retired teachers for an increase in their pensions.
With your permission I am taking questions 8 and 9 together.
Representations have been made on numerous occasions during recent years by and on behalf of retired national teachers to the effect that in view of the increase in the cost of living they are entitled to an increase of pension.
It is my desire and the desire of the Government to endeavour to narrow the gap which exists between the amount of these pensions and the present cost of living. In view of the general financial position which appears to be one of extreme difficulty and is at present being reviewed it is not possible for me to say anything just now except that I am in the process of examining the position of the pensioned teachers, particularly in relation to representations made on behalf of teachers who, because of their being in receipt of very small pensions, are suffering much hardship.