Departmental Schemes

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2017

Tuesday, 21 March 2017

Questions (640)

Seán Haughey

Question:

640. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the reason the Civil Service spouses and children's superannuation scheme was introduced by way of circular letter P18/12/67, dated 18 May 1984; if the Minister had the authority to issue such a circular; the reason membership of the scheme is obligatory on all civil servants, regardless of their health, family circumstances or other circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14083/17]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

The Revised Civil Service Spouses and Children's Pension Scheme (the "Revised Scheme") was introduced in 1984 as a result of an agreed recommendation made by General Council under the Scheme for Conciliation and Arbitration for the Civil Service. The recommendation was regarding the amendment of certain provisions of the Civil Service Spouses and Children's Contributory Pension Scheme (the "Old Scheme") - General Council Report 1018 refers.

The authority to issue a circular on this matter derives from Section 17 of the Civil Service Regulation Act, 1956 which states inter alia,

"The Minister shall be responsible for the following matters -

(c) the fixing of -

(i) the terms and conditions of service of civil servants".

Membership of the Spouses and Children's Scheme has been compulsory for all new entrants into the Civil Service since 1984. The Scheme is structured on a group insurance basis and the member contribution rates take account of the fact that payment of benefits will not arise in respect of all members.