asked the Minister for the Environment whether he will amend the terms of the local government officers widows and orphans contributory pension scheme, 1984, as extended to female local authority and health board officers to take account of circumstances involving separation of spouses arising subsequent to their joining the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Amendment of Pension Scheme.
27.
The scheme referred to by the Deputy was negotiated with staff interests and is in line with similar schemes in operation throughout the public sector generally. The rules of the scheme provide for the payment of contributions by all members and there are no provisions whereby the contribution requirements or an entitlement to a benefit may be cancelled in cases of marital separation.
My Department has no plans at present to initiate changes in this area and no proposals in this regard have been received from staff interests under the agreed negotiation procedures.