asked the Minister for Education the reason national school teachers who remained in service after the change from non-contributory to contributory pensions in 1953 have received occupational pensions based on both payments, while those who left before the contributory period receive nothing.
Written Answers. - Teachers' Pensions.
653.
Pensions are awarded to national school teachers in accordance with the terms of the national school teachers' superannuation schemes. Up to 30 June 1968, these schemes were non-contributory but since 1 July 1968 members contribute towards the schemes by way of deductions at the rate of 5 per cent, made from their pensionable salary and allowances.
To be eligible for the award of a pension under the schemes, a teacher must, at the date of his retirement, have either:
(a) at least five years pensionable service and have attained the age of sixty years;
(b) at least thirty-five years pensionable service and have attained the age of fifty-five years.
Pensions payable to national teachers under the schemes are based on the teacher's total pensionable service, contributory and non-contributory, subject to a maximum of forty years.
There are special provisions in the schemes for the award of pension to teachers retiring on the grounds of ill-health.