Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 July 2022
1081. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education if a person (details supplied) has an entitlement to financial compensation in view of the circumstances of the case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40416/22]
View answerAccording to Departmental records, the person referred to by the Deputy made an application to retire on a voluntary basis on the 29/02/2012 with 37 years and 272 days of service at almost 58 years old. This individual chose to avail of the grace period for retirement and by so doing their pension and lump sum were calculated with reference to the pre-FEMPI rates of pay in place on 01/09/2008 rather than the lower pay scales applying from 01/01/2010 and on his date of retirement. This grace period was open to public servants for a period of over two years, from 01/01/2010 to 29/02/2012. It was open to all public servants to remain in service to a date after 29 February 2012, albeit retirement benefits would be calculated with reference to the relevant pay scale at the date of retirement. This teacher was in receipt of a principal’s allowance at retirement, which was factored into their pension calculations. Since retirement, their pension has been adjusted in line with public service policy on pension increases. The most recent increase will be received by the person in their pension payment on 4th August 2022.
With regard to compensation sought; compensation is not a feature of the pension scheme legislation and the rules cannot be deviated from. This person’s voluntary retirement was processed correctly according to the rules pension scheme of which they were a member and all appropriate procedures were adhered to.
