Based on the information provided the individual previously served as a member of the Permanent Defence Forces (PDF) and subsequently became a member of An Garda Síochána (AGS). As I understand it, the individual exercised an option to transfer their pensionable service in the PDF pension scheme into the AGS pension scheme.
Where an individual transfers their service from one public service pension scheme (the 1st pension scheme) into another public service pension scheme (the 2nd pension scheme) the following process occurs:
1. The individual forfeits all rights to any benefits payable under the 1st pension scheme.
2. The pensionable service in respect of the 1st employment is combined with the pensionable service in the 2nd employment and all benefits are payable in accordance with the rules of the 2nd pension scheme.
As the individual has chosen to transfer their PDF pensionable service into the AGS pension scheme the individual does not qualify for benefits from the PDF pension scheme and all of their reckonable public service is pensionable in accordance with the rules of the AGS pension scheme.
The pensions of members of the AGS pension scheme, who are fully insured, are integrated with the Social Welfare system. This means that, in calculating their pension, account is taken of any social welfare benefits payable. In circumstances where an individual does not qualify for a Social Welfare benefit, or qualifies at a rate less than the full rate of the State Pension Contributory, a supplementary pension may be payable. The payment of a supplementary pension is not automatic and is subject to meeting certain criteria e.g. the individual must have reached minimum pension age in accordance with the rules of their scheme and must not be in paid employment.
