Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 May 2013
131. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on the recently published OECD report recommendations regarding increasing the working age (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20794/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe recently published OECD report outlines proposals for long-term pension policy. While the findings and recommendations of the OECD report are not prescriptive, the report provides a wide choice of measures for consideration which involve a number of Government Departments. I am already addressing the issue of increasing the working age in the context of the sustainability of the Irish pension system. As increased numbers of older people are living longer, pension reform measures have already been introduced. The State pension age was increased in the Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2011. The State pension age will be standardised to 66 in 2014 with the abolition of State pension transition and subsequently to 67 in 2021 and to 68 in 2028. One of the conditions for the receipt of State pension transition between the ages of 65 and 66 is the requirement to have retired from the workforce. With the abolition of State pension transition and the standardisation of State pension age to 66 in 2014, this barrier is removed. Those in receipt of State pension contributory can, where possible, work while in receipt of the pension. The structural options put forward in the OECD report have not been costed. Detailed analysis of these options will be required before decisions can be brought to the Government. I will bring proposals to the Government in due course setting out my long-term plans in this area.
