I propose to take Questions Nos. 169 and 183 together.
I received correspondence last April on behalf of the pensioner concerned and I responded promptly.
I refer the Deputies to my replies to parliamentary questions on 3 October 2000 and 19 October 2000 which give detailed information on issues relating to Aer Lingus and Aer Rianta pensions.
Having regard to the question of pension increases, I understand that the rules of the Irish airlines – general employees – superannuation scheme do not provide for pension increases in line with pay movements. However, I understand that in line with the discretion available to them under the scheme, the trustees have provided pension increases in line with the consumer price index. The benefits from the scheme are those that have been agreed by the membership of the scheme.