Pension Provisions

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 July 2023

Tuesday, 11 July 2023

Questions (876)

Verona Murphy

Question:

876. Deputy Verona Murphy asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to provide an update on his Departmental proposal to the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform in regard to researchers at technological universities having access to the single pension scheme; what cross departmental discussions have taken place on the matter since April 2023; what further timeframe is expected on a resolution to the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34042/23]

Written answers

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

The business case supporting access to the single pension scheme by researchers in TUs remains under consideration. I understand that my officials have sought updates in recent weeks, while the matter was also discussed at an IR forum with the TUI in April where the need for progress was emphasised.

I remain firmly of the view that there should be access to public service pensions for research staff in all higher education institutions across the sector. As such, I have asked my officials to once again follow-up with their counterparts in the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery & Reform in order to progress this matter.