asked the Minister for Education if, in view of the hardship being suffered by retired national teachers due to the increased cost of living, he will ensure that payment of the gratuity which it has been decided to grant to teachers who retired before 1st January, 1950, is made as soon as possible, and in any event not later than 31st December, 1952.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Teachers' Gratuities.
Payment of the special lump sum which it has been decided to grant to national teacher pensioners who retired before 1st January, 1950, cannot be made until after the necessary amendment of the statutory national teachers' superannuation scheme has been prepared and approved by the Oireachtas. It would not be possible, therefore, to pay the amounts in question before the 31st instant. The matter will, however, be expedited as much as possible.
Does it follow that this matter cannot be dealt with until the Dáil resumes after Christmas?
I think that is correct.