asked the Minister for Transport and Power what arrangements are being made with regard to increasing the pensions of the pre-April, 1963 category of CIE workers; and the total number of pensioners involved.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - CIE Pensioners.
24.
The present number of CIE wages grade pensioners who retired before 1st April, 1963, is 1,150. These pensioners have, by decision of the Government, received three ex gratia increases since 1963. The cost of these increases has been borne solely by CIE.
CIE wages grade pensions are designed to supplement the normal social welfare benefits for which workers are also eligible. All pre-April, 1963, pensioners are in receipt of contributory old age pensions which have been considerably increased in recent years. As the Deputy is aware, the pensions will be further increased from October, 1972, bringing the total income of a married pensioner to £12.22½ if over 70 and to £12.72½ if over 80 years.
Have these pensioners been given an advantage relevant to other pensioners in State and semi-State bodies?
We have fixed up that. There was a stage when they were at a disadvantage but they are now on the same basis as all the other pensioners. They are on a two-third basis.