asked the Minister for Education why a secondary teacher (name supplied) who is a priest in Dublin has had a deduction made by the Department from his quarterly salary in respect of widows' and orphans' pensions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Teacher's Salary Reduction.
105.
When the widows' and children's pension scheme was being introduced all men secondary teachers were circularised pointing out that men teachers who became members of the secondary teachers' superannuation scheme subsequent to 30th September, 1969, would be required to participate compulsorily in the widows' and children's pension scheme and contribute to its cost. Existing teachers who were members of the secondary teachers' superannuation scheme prior to 30th September, 1969, were given the option of contracting out of the widows' and children's pension scheme. This option had to be exercised, however, not later than 30th September, 1969. The priest in question did not exercise this option and thus automatically became a member of the scheme.
Would the Minister not agree that the first reaction of a religious secondary teacher, a priest or a nun or a brother, to a widows' pension scheme would be to consign such a document to the wastepaper basket as not being relevant to his or her circumstances? Is it not understandable in these circumstances that this teacher did not pursue his option to opt out? Will it be possible to reconsider this case in view of the fact that these people will never benefit?
It cannot be reviewed now. A circular was sent to them informing them of the position and I am sure the Deputy is aware that, after the particular date in question, all male teachers, irrespective of whether they were religious or lay, would be members of this superannuation scheme and it was only those who were in the service prior to the scheme who were given the option of declaring themselves out. They were informed of this fact and they had to opt out before a certain date. They were all circularised and notified about it. It was assumed that those who did not opt out wished to remain in. I am sure the Deputy is also aware that on retirement the contribution is refunded.
Fair enough. I wanted to elicit that information.