Occupational pension (superannuation) terms for members of the PDF are provided under the Defence Forces Pensions Schemes, relevant circulars and legislation, and under public service pension policy.
The specific terms that apply to any individual depend primarily on the date a person joins the PDF and on whether that person is joining the Public Service for the first time. Their entitlements also depend on their specific circumstances and on many variables including rank, pensionable service and pensionable remuneration.
The main dates of joining that dictate a difference in the pension terms which apply are:
• before 1 April 2004 [the DF Pre-2004 Pension Scheme],
• after 1 April 2004 but before 1 January 2013 [the DF Post-2004 Pension Scheme],
• after 1 January 2013 [the Single Pension Scheme]
The Deputy’s query appears to refer to a specific scenario in relation to enlisted personnel who joined the Permanent Defence Forces (PDF) before April 2004. Where enlisted personnel leave the DF with less than 21 years’ service and have no entitlement to a pension, and then rejoin the public service after a break of 26 weeks, they are then a member of the Single Pension Scheme, in accordance with the 2012 Act.
It is important to note that the DF Pre-2004 Scheme is a non-contributory scheme, as such members do not pay explicit main scheme contributions.
There is no facility to transfer benefits accrued in pre-existing public service pension schemes into the Single Scheme. This is the case for all public servants who are members of that Scheme. However there is provision to purchase additional benefits under the Single Scheme.
Where an individual holds a pension entitlement under both a pre-existing public service pension scheme and the Single Scheme, this will give rise to separate benefits payable in accordance with the terms of the scheme(s) concerned. In the case outlined in question, the person would not have an entitlement to a pension but would have entitlement to a short service gratuity. This is payable at flat rates that depend on retiring rank and qualifying service.
