asked the Minister for the Public Service the pension groups that have not yet been granted full parity; and when he will be in a position to ensure that this is done.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pension Parity.
3.
I assume that the question relates to pension groups in the public sector.
All the main public service groups, including civil servants, Defence Forces, Garda, teachers and local authority employees, receive, with effect from 1st July each year, pensions increases based on full parity with rates of pay in operation on that date.
The initiative in granting increases to pensioners of State-sponsored bodies lies with the bodies themselves and/or the trustees of their superannuation schemes. Where my approval is required under statute, such approval is granted for increases within the public service limits as to amounts and effective dates. In cases where I have no statutory function in relation to a body's superannuation arrangements, the responsibility for the granting of pensions increases rests with the body concerned and/or the trustees of its superannuation scheme.
Would the Minister be prepared to facilitate them if they take the initiative in this matter?
Does the Deputy mean other bodies?
Yes.
As long as the initiative taken is within the ambit that applies in the public sector.