I propose to take Questions Nos. 264, 270 and 272 to 277, inclusive, together.
In the first instance, matters relating to pension provisions are between the employer and its employees, who can be represented in negotiations by staff unions. The design and funding of pension schemes are governed by rules and a regulatory framework set out in the Pensions Acts, and all such schemes in the State must conform accordingly and Employers and Pension Scheme Trustees must engage as required with the Pensions Board.
I can confirm that two submissions have been made on behalf of some staff of the Irish Aviation Authority in accordance with Section 41 (7) of the Irish Aviation Authority Act, 1993 which provides that a dispute on superannuation benefit may be submitted to the Minister for Transport for determination by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. I am not able to comment further on the details of the submissions at this point but can advise the Deputies that it will be considered in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
The IAA provides pensions to its employees under four superannuation schemes.
(1) The Irish Aviation Authority Staff Superannuation Scheme 1996 is applicable to staff whose employment commenced prior to 1 April, 2008; and (2) The Irish Aviation Authority Staff Superannuation Scheme 2008 is applicable to staff whose employment commenced from 1 April 2008 to 31 December 2011. Both of these schemes have been approved as required under the Act.
(3) The Irish Aviation Authority Hybrid Pension 2012 is applicable to staff whose employment commenced from 1 January 2012. The Hybrid Pension is counted as two connected schemes - (3) (i) a Defined Contribution scheme and (3) (ii) a Defined Benefit scheme. For now, the 2012 Hybrid Pension is operating on an administrative basis pending the receipt of final formal documentation from the Company in accordance with Section 41 of the Act.