Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 June 2022
113. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Social Protection further to Parliamentary Question No. 502 of 17 May 2022, if she will provide an update on her Department’s consideration of the Report of the Commission on Pensions; when she plans to bring the recommended response and implementation plan before the Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34676/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Pensions Commission’s Report was published on the 7th October 2021. It contained almost 250 pages of analysis, consideration and recommendations. The report established that the current State Pension system is not sustainable into the future and it has set out a recommended approach for Government.
In the interests both of older people and future generations of older people, I can assure the Deputy that the Government is considering the comprehensive and far reaching recommendations in the Commission’s Report very carefully and holistically. My officials are examining each of the recommendations and I am consulting across Government through the Cabinet Committee system with meetings scheduled over the coming weeks. The views of the Joint Committee on Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands and the Commission on Taxation and Welfare will also be considered as part of these deliberations.
Once we have considered all of these matters in detail and taken on board the views of my Ministerial colleagues, I intend bringing a recommended response and implementation plan to Government. While this is somewhat later than initially planned, I am sure that the Deputy will understand that the issues raised and views expressed by the Joint Committee and others require careful consideration.
It is clear from the Commission’s work that State Pension reform is necessary and it is complex. It would be a strategic risk not to plan and provide for projected demographic changes, not least in terms of income adequacy for older people. The State Pension is the bedrock of the pension system in Ireland. It is extremely effective at ensuring that our pensioners do not experience poverty. This Government is committed to ensuring that this remains the case for current pensioners, those nearing State Pension age and today’s young workers including those who are only starting their careers.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
