Fire Service

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 July 2022

Tuesday, 12 July 2022

Questions (464)

Darren O'Rourke

Question:

464. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if there was a change in policy in the fire service which meant for a time that firefighters had to retire at 58 years of age; if this policy has subsequently changed; if compensation or other consideration has been given to those firefighters who were forced to retire at 58 years who would otherwise have had the opportunity to continue in service for another two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38096/22]

Written answers

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage

Previously, the normal retirement age of retained firefighters was 55 years, with provision for an annual extension up to the age of 58 years, subject to a formal application process, including a compulsory assessment under the Occupational Health Scheme.

In early 2020, the Workplace Relations Commission recommended that the existing provisions for the retirement age of retained firefighters should be amended to change the existing provision for an annual extension from 58 years to 60 years.

In deference to this recommendation, in December 2020 and on an interim basis pending consideration of legislative amendments, retained firefighters may now continue working until reaching the age of 60 years, subject to annual compulsory assessment under the Occupational Health Scheme.

The issue of compensation does not arise where policy changes in response to a recommendation of the Workplace Relations Commission.