Vol. 508 No. 1
643 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the proposals, if any, he has to introduce an early retirement scheme at 60 for salmon fishing licence holders who dispose of their licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17506/99]
The question of providing an early retirement scheme for the group of people referred to by the Deputy is primarily a matter for my colleague, the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources.
In relation to the social welfare entitlements of such people, as the Deputy will be aware, pensionable age in this country is 65 years. A retirement pension is paid at that age to any person who has retired from insurable employment and who satisfies the qualifying contribution conditions.
