asked the Minister for Finance if in order to meet the increase in the cost of living he will recommend an increase in the pensions of all retired Government employees, including Army and Garda pensions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pension Increases.
Mr. A. Byrne
As I informed the Deputy on the 6th November, in reply to a parliamentary question, I can hold out no hope of introducing legislation to increase the pensions of retired public officials having regard to the heavy State expenditure which such legislation would involve.
Mr. A. Byrne
Is the Minister aware that, since he made that reply, the unfortunate pensioners are suffering very great hardships due to the increased cost of living arising from his own vicious Budget?
I am aware of the fact that any acceptance of the suggestion made by Deputy Byrne would probably result in an increased assessment on manual workers for income-tax.