asked the Minister for Justice if he will amend the ministerial order relating to pensions in the Garda Síochána so as to enable members of the force to change to the 1951 pensions scheme where they so desire.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Pensions Scheme.
12.
It is not intended to amend the Garda Síochána Pensions Orders on the lines suggested.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary indicate why?
Because it is not considered that there was a case for doing so.
The Parliamentary Secretary will appreciate that there were many members of the force who would wish to change from one section to another. Would he not consider giving them a chance to do so?
With the exception of a very small number who are prevented from doing so on health grounds, every Garda had the option of transferring in 1951. With the exception of the small member I have mentioned, all the others refused to do so.
The Parliamentary Secretary will appreciate the fact that some of the Garda who at one time decided not to transfer have since got married. Would he not give them an opportunity to transfer now?
I do not think I am called upon to give that opportunity because at that time they were given a period of six months. They opted at that time to keep to the old system.