asked the Minister for Transport and Power the number of CIE wage grade pensioners who are at present in receipt of (a) 6/- (b) 6/-to 12/- and (c) 12/- to £1 per week; and whether, pending the decision of the present investigating body on CIE pensions, he will make representations to CIE to grant an interim increase to those in receipt of these very small pensions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - CIE Wage Grade Pensioners.
28.
I am informed by CIE that the numbers of wages grade pensioners in the categories referred to in the Deputy's question are: (a) 5; (b) 1,257; (c) 539.
As I have previously indicated, these pensioners are also eligible for contributory old age pension or, if they are under 70 years, for unemployment or disability benefit under the Social Welfare Acts. I do not therefore contemplate taking the steps suggested by the Deputy.