Defence Forces

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 March 2023

Tuesday, 28 March 2023

Ceisteanna (349)

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

349. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he is aware of the sense of injustice felt by families of persons who served in the armed forces for extended periods, but died shortly after retiring from active service, and whose pension died with them leaving a widow to struggle with young children, as in a case (details supplied); if the State would consider establishing a scholarship fund or some similar charitable memorial, which would acknowledge the harshness of the arrangements after such loyal service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15363/23]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence

I would like to acknowledge the excellent service provided by Defence Forces personnel, past and present, to the State.

On the matter of pensions, there are a number of different arrangements in place for spouses and children of former deceased Defence Forces personnel, depending on the rank of the deceased member and their start date with the Defence Forces.

From 1970 onwards, contributory spouses and children’s pension schemes were introduced for the various cohorts of DF personnel. In line with normal public service pension policy, when these Defence Forces' contributory spouses and children’s pension schemes were introduced, membership was compulsory for those who joined the Defence Forces after the relevant date. Personnel who were serving at the time the various schemes were introduced, were given an option to join.

In addition, at the time the various contributory pension schemes were introduced for Defence Forces enlisted personnel, an ex-gratia scheme was also introduced for the families of personnel who had retired or died prior to the introduction of the schemes, subject to meeting certain qualifying criteria. The ex-gratia scheme remains in place for those that meet the eligibility criteria.