Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 July 2015
61. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if she will arrange a meeting with representatives of an association (details supplied) regarding the classification of pensioners within legislation. [27203/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Minister for Finance stated previously in the House that an additional levy on pension funds was introduced for 2014 and 2015 to help fund the Jobs Initiative and to make provision for potential State liabilities emerging from pre-existing or future pension fund difficulties. Therefore, the application of the pension levy is a matter for the Minister for Finance.
In general, pension schemes in Ireland are set up under trust and, in that context the trustees of a pension scheme are required to act in the best interest of all scheme members. Earlier this year, I introduced regulations and approved an amendment to guidance issued by the Pensions Authority to provide for the recognition by the trustees of a pensions scheme of groups representing the interests of pensioner and deferred members of pension schemes. These changes mean that all groups representing the interests of the various categories of pension schemes membership are treated the same in the context of the provisions in the Pensions Act. These changes will facilitate engagement between groups representing the interests of pensioner and deferred scheme members and the Pension Authority and the trustees of a pension scheme.
I understand that my officials have previously met with representatives of the association referred to by the Deputy.
