With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 5, 6, and 7 together.
In each of the past four years the annuity payable under the farmer's retirement scheme has been increased from 1 May broadly in line with the consumer price index. I intend to consider in due course whether a further increase should be made from 1 May next.
Particulars of the annuities payable under the scheme are set out in a tabular statement which, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to circulate with the Official Report.
Amendments to the enabling directive have been proposed by the EEC Commission and these are at present being considered by the Council of Ministers. When decisions have been taken by the Council the question of amending our farmers' retirement scheme will be considered.
Following is the statement referred to:
Rates of Annuity payable under the Farmers' Retirement Scheme.
From
|
Single/ Widowed
|
Married
|
|
£ per annum
|
£ per annum
|
1 May 1974
|
400
|
600
|
(date of inception of Scheme)
|
|
|
1 May 1976
|
530
|
800
|
1 May 1977
|
606
|
918
|
1 May 1978
|
660
|
996
|
1 May 1979
|
732
|
1,104
|