Vol. 537 No. 5
174 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the plans she has to address the problems of Aer Lingus and Aer Rianta pensioners whose pensions dropped 25% below the public sector norm between 1989 and 1999; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16777/01]
177 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the level of savings made by Aer Lingus at the expense of the employee pension scheme in the period 1990-95; the input of the company to the scheme to date; the way in which this compares with companies such as An Post and the ESB; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16837/01]
182 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she will ensure that the concerns of retired aviation staff of Aer Lingus and Aer Rianta regarding their pension scheme are addressed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17038/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 174, 177 and 182 together.
In relation to the enhancement of Aer Lingus and Aer Rianta pensions, I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 75 and 76 of 24 May 2001 which gives a full account of the position.
Specific details concerning the administration of the Aer Lingus, ESB and An Post pension schemes are matters for the trustees of the pension schemes and the companies concerned having regard to the rules of the relevant schemes. I have no function in relation to these matters. I am advised by Aer Lingus that the airline is complying with the terms of the general employees scheme and meeting all its liabilities. Therefore, the question of savings being made at the expense of employees does not arise.
