Social Protection Committee to resume discussion on pensions with Family Carers Ireland and Union representatives

The Pensions Commission was established in November 2020 to examine the sustainability of the State Pension System and the Social Insurance fund.

The Commission’s report has stated that the current State Pension is not sustainable in its current form and changes are needed.

The following representatives are due to address the Committee.

·        Michael Taft – Senior Economist, Siptu

·        Rachael Ryan – Barrister, Head of Siptu

·        Dr Laura Bambrick  - Social Policy and Legislative Officer, Irish Congress of Trade Unions

·        Liam Berney – Industrial Officer (Ictu)

·        Clare Duffy – Policy and Public Affairs Manager, Family Carers Ireland

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Denis Naughten said: “The Commission of Pensions has recommended moving to a European-style flexible pension age including proposing Government give a right to retire on a full State Pension from age 65 to workers who have worked from a young age.

“We look forward to hearing from Family Carers Ireland to discuss the development of a sustainable State Pension for long term family carers. One in eight people in Ireland provide care and it is estimated that this will increase in the coming years in order to meet the growing demand for care.”

“The Commission has also recommended new legislation to allow, but not compel, workers to remain in their jobs up until at least the pension age. Irish people are living for longer but our current pensions system is not fit for purpose. The ways in which we determine pension provision need to account for a variety of life circumstances including proper recognition of family carers, raising children and those wishing to retire earlier or later in life.”

“We look forward to hearing perspectives on the recommendations of the Commission from Family Carers Ireland, Siptu and Ictu.”