asked the Minister for Transport and Power if a decision has been made regarding the claim for increased pensions by CIE pensioners, especially those who retired prior to 1963; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - CIE Pensioners.
49.
Under the provisions of section 44 of the Transport Act, 1950 the onus is on CIE to make proposals to me for both new superannuation schemes and amending superannuation schemes.
Earlier this year the Labour Court examined the position of CIE pre-April, 1963, wages grade pensioners and made a number of recommendations for the improvement of the position of these pensioners.
I understand that CIE have now brought the level of pensions for pre-April, 1963, pensioners up to the level of equivalent grades retiring on 1st July, 1974. The increases in these pensions were paid in the week ended 3rd November, 1974. The pensions of postApril, 1963, pensioners will also be brought up to the levels of equivalent grades retiring on 1st July, 1974, and these increases will, I understand, be paid in the week commencing 16th December, 1974.
I should, of course, stress that the CIE wages grade pension scheme is designed to supplement social welfare pensions.
I might add that CIE have undertaken to review wages grade pensions at 1st July every year in future. As a result of this there will be further substantial increases in CIE wages grade pensions on 1st July, 1975.
It is about time they got something.
I quite agree.