Niall Collins
Question:348. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport the status of negotiations on CIÉ pensions (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19427/22]
View answerTuesday, 26 April 2022
Questions (348)
Written answers
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 Regular Wages Scheme (RWS). These changes have been agreed by the trustees of the Scheme, the employees and the CIÉ Group following extensive and prolonged engagement between all parties.
There are a number of steps before an SI can be made, including the statutory consultation process. In accordance with the provisions of Section 44(3) of the Transport Act 1950, I directed CIÉ to publish a statutory notice of the draft SIs in Iris Oifigiúil, which was advertised on the 14th of January 2022. Within 45 days from the publication of this notice, any person may make objections and representations in relation to the Scheme to me. I must consider any objections or representations which have been made during this period, prior to confirming a Scheme or any amendments to such Scheme.
The consultation period ended on the 28 February 2022 and officials in my Department are currently examining the submissions received. Upon completion, a report will be submitted to me, as Minister, for consideration. Following this, consultation with the Minster for Public Expenditure and Reform will be carried out.
Concerning the 1951 Scheme, members of the Scheme were balloted regarding the Labour Court Recommendation which emerged on 23rd November 2020, with a majority voting to accept the proposals. CIÉ has prepared and submitted a consolidated draft Statutory Instrument to give effect to the proposed changes to the scheme which is currently being considered by my Department.
I further wish to advise that the rules governing the 1951 scheme are currently subject to ongoing legal proceedings before the Commercial Court. As such, being sub-judice, it is not appropriate for me to comment further on the matter.