asked the Minister for Defence if the widows' and orphans' pension scheme which was introduced in 1978 will be reviewed by the present review board; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
22.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Widows' and Orphans' Pension Scheme.
14.
asked the Minister for Defence if he will consider the establishment of a separate widows' and orphans' pension scheme for members of the Defence Forces, as the present scheme results in the loss of gratuity payments on retirement after 21 years' service; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
(Limerick West): I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 22 together. The special widows' and children's contributory pension scheme for non-commissioned officers and privates introduced in 1978 is based on a similar scheme introduced for the public service. Members are required to pay the appropriate contributions to ensure that their families qualify for the benefits under the scheme.
Under the terms of the scheme, contributions take the form of (a) periodic contributions, which are deducted from pay; and (b) non-periodic contributions, which are deducted from gratuity. Non-periodic contributions are made in respect of each year of pensionable service, subject to a maximum of 31 years, for which deductions are not made.
No change in these arrangements is proposed.