James Lawless
Ceist:383. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Transport the status of the CIÉ pension freeze; if plans are in place to address this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20183/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 26 April 2022
Ceisteanna (383)
Freagraí scríofa
The CIÉ Group has two pension schemes, namely the Regular Wages Scheme ("RWS") and 1951 superannuation scheme ("1951 Scheme") and issues in relation to CIÉ pension schemes are primarily a matter for the trustees of the schemes, the CIÉ Group and their employees.
As the Deputy may be aware, the CIÉ Group is actively engaged in introducing changes to the schemes aimed at rectifying the significant deficit in order to meet the statutory Minimum Funding Standard required by the Pensions Authority.
In relation to the Deputy's specific question regarding the status of the CIÉ pension freeze, I understand that an increase for pensioners, would only be possible when the Schemes are capable of sustaining such increases. Furthermore, any such proposal would be dependent on the advice of the Scheme Actuary at the time an increase is proposed, and is done in agreement with the Trustees of the Schemes.
Accordingly, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to CIÉ for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.