Committee on Finance - Vote 14—Superannuation and Retired Allowances. – Dáil Éireann (16th Dáil) – Thursday, 20 Jul 1961

Committee on Finance - Vote 14—Superannuation and Retired Allowances.

Dr. Ryan

I move:

That a sum not exceeding £899,820 be granted to complete the sum necessary to defray the charge which will come in course of payment during the year ending on the 31st day of March, 1962, for Pensions, Superannuation, Compensation (including Workmen's Compensation), and additional and other Allowances and Gratuities under the Superannuation Acts, 1834 to 1956, and sundry other Statutes; Extra-Statutory Pensions, Allowances, and Gratuities awarded by the Minister for Finance; fees to Medical Referees and occasional fees to Doctors; Compensation and other Payments in respect of Personal Injuries; etc.

Mr. Sweetman

I am not quite certain whether this matter comes under this Vote. I understand a decision has been made which has not yet been implemented, and I am wondering whether it could not be implemented under this Estimate with, as the Minister said a moment ago in relation to another Estimate, a firm intention of bringing in legislation at a later date.

For years, in respect of unestablished personnel in the Civil Service, the practice has been that they were not entitled to gratuities until they had served 15 years prior to their retiral. A decision has now been made that that period of 15 years is to be cut down to seven years. That decision as such requires legislation. It requires amendment of the Superannuation Acts.

Dáil Éireann debate - Thursday, 20 Jul 1961