Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 March 2022
496. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Social Protection if confirmation will be provided that PRSI will not be imposed upon pensioners over the age of 66 years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11036/22]
View answer497. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Social Protection if confirmation will be provided that no changes will be made to the PRSI status of persons aged over 66 years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11037/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 496 and 497 together.
The Pensions Commission was established, inter alia, to develop options for Government to consider in addressing the sustainability of the State pension system and the social insurance fund. The Commission presented its report to Government late last year and unambiguously established that the current State Pension is not sustainable into the future and that change is needed. It is a comprehensive and detailed report that takes account of responses to an extensive consultation process. The report sets out a wide range of recommendations, including measures to increase Social Insurance Fund (SIF) income.
The report was referred to the Joint Committee on Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands. That Committee published its views on the 2nd February 2022.
Separately, and as set out in its terms of reference, the Commission on Taxation and Welfare is considering the report of the Pensions Commission in the context of its review of potential changes to the social insurance system, including relevant PRSI rates and coverage recommendations, and I await its views.
In parallel, I am working with my officials to examine each of the recommendations carefully and consulting with colleagues in Government through the Cabinet Committee system.
I think it is very important that we get all the relevant views and complete our examination work before reaching conclusions on any specific aspect or recommendation. Once that is done, I intend to bring a recommended response and implementation plan to Government for its consideration by the end of March.
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. This Government is committed to ensuring that this remains the case for current pensioners, those nearing State Pension age and today’s young workers including those who are only starting their careers.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
