Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020
879. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will provide information on the planned membership of the Commission on Pensions; if the Commission will be independent and reflect all sections of society; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32872/20]
View answerThe public policy and social issues in relation to funding a sustainable and adequate State pension system are complex. The Programme for Government commits that a Commission on Pensions will be established to examine a range of issues including contributions, calculation methods, sustainability, eligibility and intergenerational fairness.
I am pleased to announce that the Government today approved the establishment of this Commission. Its Terms of Reference and membership have been published on the Department's website at www.gov.ie/dsp. It is imperative that the Commission has the required expertise to progress its work and is independent in its deliberations and this is reflected in its membership with subject matter experts and stakeholder representatives.
As part of its work and deliberations, the Commission will seek views from other recognised experts and representative/advocacy groups by inviting submissions and/or presentations.
As set out in the Programme for Government, the Commission will report to Government by June of next year and the Government will take action having regard to the recommendations of the Commission within 6 months of receiving that report.
In the meantime, I was pleased to announce on Budget Day that the planned increase in the State pension age next year will be deferred, in line with our Programme for Government commitment, and it will remain at 66 years pending the report of the Commission on Pensions. I will introduce legislation later this year to do that.
While this Government is acutely conscious of the need to consider the sustainability of the State’s finances, this is not the only consideration when thinking of the State pension age. The State Pension is the bedrock of the pension system in Ireland. It is extremely effective at ensuring that our pensioners do not experience poverty. The Government is committed to ensuring that this remains the case.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
