Vol. 577 No. 3
298 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the reasons teachers are restricted to one pension provider (details supplied) under the additional voluntary contributions pension scheme; the reason teachers do not have access to the entire pensions marketplace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31163/03]
299 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason teachers who are taking out the additional voluntary contributions pension scheme are forced to deal with one financial adviser (details supplied) when there are many other reputable financial advisors in the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31164/03]
300 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science if good practice exists for additional voluntary contributions pension schemes; if the present monopoly created contravenes all normal business practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31165/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 298 to 300, inclusive, together.
Under agreements with the ASTI, the INTO and the religious orders, my Department makes deductions from teachers' pay in respect of additional voluntary contributions towards the pensions of primary and secondary teachers. Under an agreement with the TUI, vocational education committees make similar deductions in the case of vocational teachers and some teachers in community and comprehensive schools. The additional voluntary contributions schemes in question have been approved by the Revenue Commissioners for purposes of tax relief.
