Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 December 2025
195. Deputy Ciarán Ahern asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the 5% increase in pensions for retired CIÉ workers; to provide an update on the Statutory Instrument required to give effect to the increase; when he expects the Statutory Instrument to be finalised; when he expects the increase to be applied; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [68576/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra196. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to correspondence sent to his office on 13 November 2025; if he will engage with an organisation (details supplied) in relation to the substantive issues that they raised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [68587/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra197. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding any engagement he has had since taking up his current role with an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [68588/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra198. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding any review being carried out by his Department into the requests by an organisation (details supplied); if there is any report commissioned in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [68589/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra199. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to a protest carried out by an organisation (details supplied) in Limerick on 17 November 2025 in relation to pension entitlements; the actions he will take to address these concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [68590/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra226. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Transport for a progress report on matters pertaining to the pension entitlements and arrangements for retired CIÉ workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [68885/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 195, 196, 197, 198, 199 and 226 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. Any correspondence received by my Department in relation to CIÉ Pension Schemes will be processed via the Department's central eCorrespondence system, with replies issued by officials in due course.
Regarding the recent engagement between CIÉ and the Trade Union Group (TUG) on the matter of the CIÉ Pension Schemes, the Department acknowledges the longstanding tradition within CIÉ of ensuring that terms and conditions of employees, which include pension provision, are negotiated collectively with recognised Trade Unions.
I welcome the constructive and collaborative approach of the Trade Union Group and CIÉ management in reaching agreement on a pathway forward, which is aimed at balancing the objectives of supporting the future sustainability of the schemes, protecting existing benefits for members of the scheme (including pensioners), and contributing to the overall financial stability of the CIÉ Group.
I acknowledge the positive outcome from the ballot held on the CIÉ Pension Proposal for both Schemes, which was agreed by CIÉ and the TUG in May of this year.
In line with the appropriate processes and compliance with all applicable requirements, my Department will continue to engage 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.
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.
