asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware of the hardships and dissatisfaction amongst civil servants who retired before 1940 and who have received no compensation whatsoever for the subsequent rises in the cost of living, that the increases in their pensions promised with effect from 1st November, 1946, have not yet been granted; and, if so, whether he will now make arrangements for the payment of this increase.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pensions of Retired Civil Servants.
Mr. Byrne
The Deputy is incorrect in assuming that any specific-promise has been given that pensions increases of the kind referred to by the Deputy will be made available. As was indicated to the Deputy in reply to a question asked by him on the 3rd March, the possibility of increasing civil pensions of various kinds is being examined in the light of the financial position.
Mr. Byrne
Is the Minister satisfied that no promise was made?
I am referring to the promise which is tucked into the Deputy's question, that increases in their pensions were promised with effect from 1st November, 1946. I know of no such promise.