asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that the Local Government (Superannuation) Act, 1948, does not provide for pensions for road workers and other employees of county councils where, at the date of application of Part III, such employees are over 60 years of age; and, if so, whether he will introduce proposals for legislation to remedy this anomaly at an early date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Local Government (Superannuation) Act, 1948.
While the Local Government (Superannuation) Act, 1948, did not make comprehensive superannuation provision for local officers and employees over 60 years of age on the dates of commencement, there is special provision made in Section 88 of the Act for permanent employees over 60 when Part III comes into operation. This provision enables pensions to be given to all permanent local employees over 60 years of age (and fire brigade servants over 55), where Part III of the Act has been adopted, provided they have at least 10 years' continuous service when they come to retire.
In view of the fact that the law advisers to Dublin County Council have notified that council that it is not empowered to make grants available to its servants over 60, will the Minister convey the official view, as set out in his reply, to the Dublin County Council on this matter, so that these men will get the benefit?
Certainly. I know there has been some difficulty as far as the interpretation of the Act by the Dublin County Council is concerned and I propose to have a consultation with the law agent of the Dublin County Council in respect of certain county council employees.