Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 May 2021
73. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to ongoing discussions taking place between CIÉ management and the membership of the CIÉ 1951 pension schemes; if he will intervene to resolve the issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26696/21]
View answer75. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Transport if he will instruct CIÉ to await the outcome of the High Court application in relation to the CIÉ 1951 pension scheme, which was lodged by the trustees of the scheme, before CIÉ make changes to the pension scheme. [26723/21]
View answer77. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Transport the status of the discussions related to the CIÉ pensions scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26769/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 73, 75 and 77 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport in Ireland.
The CIÉ Group has two pension schemes, namely the Regular Wages Scheme (“RWS”) and 1951 superannuation scheme (“1951 Scheme”) and issues in relation to CIÉ pension schemes are primarily a matter for the trustees of the schemes, the CIÉ Group and their employees.
In relation to the RWS, CIÉ has prepared and submitted draft Statutory Instruments (SIs) to give effect to the proposed changes to the scheme, and these drafts are now being considered by my Department. There are several steps involved before an SI can be made, including the statutory consultation process.
Concerning the 1951 scheme, I understand that members were recently balloted and have accepted Labour Court proposals which emerged on 23rd November 2020.
I have therefore referred the Deputies questions to CIÉ for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
