asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the introduction of the contributory Widows' and Children's Pension Scheme for civilian employees with the Defence Forces and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Widows' and Children's Pension Scheme.
12.
Arrangements are at present being made for the implementation of a contributory pension scheme for widows and children of non-established State employees, including civilian employees with the Defence Forces.
Membership of the scheme is a condition of appointment for all full-time male civilian employees appointed on or after 1 December 1978. Those appointed before that date were given an option exercisable by 31 March 1979 to participate in or stay out of the scheme.
The benefits and contributions payable under the scheme are the same as those applying under the corresponding scheme for established staff, subject to certain adjustments to take account of the full social welfare insurability of non-established employees.
Details of the scheme have been circulated to all eligible civilian employees with the Defence Forces.