asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that there has been no improvement in the superannuation code for manual employees of the State, or improved redundancy compensation, since the Superannuation Act, 1887; and when it is proposed to improve the superannuation code for the benefit of forestry workers, Land Commission workers, drainage workers and employees of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Superannuation Code for Workers.
10.
The Superannuation Act, 1887 was amended in 1963 by section 2 of the Superannuation and Pensions Act, 1963, to improve the gratuities payable on retirement or discharge to non-pensionable State employees. All such employees, including the classes mentioned by the Deputy, are insured for all benefits under the Social Welfare Acts, including the contributory old-age pension which can amount at present to £5 7s. 6d. for a married man.
Does the Minister say that the superannuation code has been improved for the type of workers I have referred to?
It has, yes.
In what way?
The period over which a man can qualify for a gratuity on retirement for infirmity has been halved and the number of weeks that can reckon for gratuity purposes from 15 years onwards has been doubled.
Surely the Minister does not suggest that that very minor alteration in the superannuation code over a period of 70 or 80 years is all that is required? Does he not consider the time has come when something worth while should be done for this type of worker so far as superannuation is concerned?
Of course the gratuities payable have increased pro rata with the rates of wages.
Does the Minister know what the pension is: one week's pay per year of service? For 15 years' service, he gets 15 weeks' pay and for over 15 years, 30 weeks. Does he believe that is ample provision by way of gratuity for somebody who has given a lifetime's service to the State?
It is better than what is procurable in many sectors of private employment in similar circumstances.
I do not know any private employment that is any worse than that. It is a shocking scheme.