asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware of the inadequate pensions payable to widows of Army officers, excluding widows of officers killed on active service; and if in view of the substantial rise in the cost of living since the present rates were fixed he will grant a substantial increase in these pensions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pensions for Widows of Army Officers.
35.
The pensions referred to by the Deputy have been increased on four occasions during the past five years, the most recent increase being 12 per cent with effect from the 1st August, 1967.
The question of any further increase could be considered only in the context of a general increase in public service pensions.
The Minister is aware that these pensions were fixed at a time when the cost of living was much lower, and that the rate of pension available to these people is particularly low.
I do not know that these pensions are particularly low. Nevertheless, the pensions decided on for dependants of deceased officers and personnel of the Army are increased in common with other service pensions in the Budget.