Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2026
308. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Transport when the CIÉ pension proposals are introduced, if his Department will give assurance that the acceptance date is 15 August 2025, the date in which the ballot for acceptance took place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3479/26]
View answer309. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Transport to clarify, that as the acceptance of the CIÉ pension proposals took place 15 August 2025, that once introduced, all CIÉ pensioners will receive backdated payments to 15 August 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3480/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 308 and 309 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. As a commercial semi-state body, Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ) are responsible for the provision of pension schemes for their employees.
Following on from the constructive and collaborative approach of the Trade Union Group and CIÉ management in reaching agreement on a pathway forward as of May 2025, my Department are currently engaging with CIÉ as well as financial advisors at NewERA, the Pensions Authority and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Services, Reform and Digitalisation on the next steps in progressing the agreement and bringing CIÉ pensions onto a more stable footing for the benefit of active, and retired scheme members, including review of the relevant statutory instruments and the matter of increases to pension payments.
My Department and all relevant stakeholders are endeavouring to achieve the same at the earliest, keeping in line with the appropriate processes, compliance with all applicable requirements, and necessary approvals.
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 this aspect of the Deputy's question to CIÉ for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
