asked the Minister for Justice if he intends to take the necessary legislative steps to increase widows' pensions and children's allowances to the widows of deceased members of the Gárda Síochána of sergeant and Gárda rank; and if he will recommend the extension of the payment of children's allowances to all the children of the widow and the deceased member.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Allowances for Dependents of Deceased Gárdai
I would invite the Deputy's attention to the reply of the Minister for Finance on the 19th September to Deputies Byrne and Norton on the subject of payments to lowly paid pensioners. I understand that investigations as to pension increases have not yet been completed.
Is the Minister aware that a Parliamentary Committee was set up in England, which recommended an increase of pension to the widows of deceased policemen and also an increase of allowances to their children? Are you aware that such a committee was set up?
Mr. Boland
The fact is that the question of all pensioners is a matter for the Minister for Finance. I understand he is considering the whole question. One class will not be taken, apart from another.
Do you intend to recommend this class of pensioner to the Minister for Finance?
Mr. Boland
That is a question for the Minister for Finance.
Do you intend to make any representations to the Minister for Finance?
Mr. Boland
I have nothing else to say in the matter.
You have nothing else to say.