Irish Airlines Superannuation Scheme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019

Tuesday, 23 July 2019

Ceisteanna (2679, 2680)

Darragh O'Brien

Ceist:

2679. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection her plans to establish an independent review group within her Department to assess the level and impact of cuts suffered by all categories of members in a pension scheme (details supplied) due to changes in legislation, in particular the Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2014, and subsequent reductions in members' benefits; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31783/19]

Darragh O'Brien

Ceist:

2680. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if her attention has been drawn to the substantial cuts imposed on members of a pension scheme in advance of the sale of the stake in a company (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31787/19]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection

I propose to take Questions Nos. 2679 and 2680 together.

I am aware of the reduction in pension benefits for members of the IASS pension scheme. However, the Deputy will appreciate that I cannot intervene in, or comment on, the pension arrangements applying to a particular pension scheme as such arrangements are a matter for the pension scheme trustees, the companies participating in the scheme, the scheme members and the Pensions Authority.

As the Deputy is aware, there is currently a case before the Courts in relation to the IASS pension scheme. Therefore, it would be inappropriate for me to comment any further on this matter.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.