Authority to implement pension increases was delegated to An Post by this Department on 26 May 1989. Traditionally, An Post has granted increases to serving staff in line with national pay agreements. Increases to pensioners have then subsequently been applied in line with increases granted to serving staff. I am also informed that the terms and conditions, including those regarding the matter of increases, as enshrined in the An Post main superannuation scheme 1990, are based on those that prevailed in the former Department of Posts and Telegraphs. I do not intend to change this delegation of authority regarding pensions as it is clearly an operational function for the board and management of An Post.
As the Deputy will be aware, the company is currently involved in detailed negotiations with its unions under the auspices of the Labour Relations Commission, in order to reach agreement on necessary restructuring with a view to returning to financial stability. These negotiations have impacted on consideration of increases for An Post pensioners. However, I understand that the An Post board and management are reviewing this situation. In light of this review, I feel it would not be appropriate to comment further at this stage.