Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 April 2025
319. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware that the last increase in pensions payment was awarded on 1 July 2008, at 5.06% in the 1951 pensions scheme for staff who worked for CIE; if he has had any discussion regarding this matter of not having an increase in 16 years and if so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15736/25]
View answerFrom the outset I would like to clarify that I, as Minister for Transport, have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. However, issues in relation to CIÉ pension schemes are primarily a matter for the trustees of the pension schemes, the CIÉ, Group and their employees. As a commercial semi-state body CIÉ are responsible for the provision of pension schemes for their employees, this is consistent with the pension arrangements of semi-state bodies.
Concerning pension increases for CIÉ pensioners, 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.
Decisions regarding pension increases are ultimately a matter for the CIÉ Board as informed by actuarial advice and is subject to requirements imposed by statute and scheme rules. Accordingly, I have referred the Deputy's question relating to an increase in pension payments for members to CIÉ for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
