I propose to take Questions Nos. 437, 438, 439 and 440 together.
The errors concerned were identified by the NSSO following Government formation in early 2025. The NSSO commenced a review to clarify the matters which were distinct and complex. As part of this review, the NSSO carried out a comprehensive review of its processes, and worked with its Client Departments and with the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation.
Once these matters had been clarified, engagement commenced and has been ongoing with those impacted since June 2025. Throughout the process, the NSSO has engaged on an individual basis to address queries and clarifications.
In relation to current ministers, the majority of persons impacted have signed up to a recoupment plan and work is ongoing by the NSSO to finalise the remaining plans or arrangements.
Since June 2025, all current Ministers on NSSO systems are on the appropriate pension schemes and associated ASC rate.
Monetary values to be recouped relate to the pensions of the individuals involved. As these are personal matters, information relating to specific amounts for individuals cannot be disclosed. Therefore, to provide further information on the breakdown of those impacted would raise matters of privacy and confidentiality regarding individual personal pension information. This would have implications with respect to GDPR and the Data Protection Act, 2011.
There were no interest or penalties associated with these repayments as this issue was no fault of the individuals involved. Administrative costs have been met by the NSSO from within existing resource allocation.
There is an independent, external audit of the NSSO mandated by myself underway which is expected to be completed in the first half of this year. An external audit firm, RSM Ireland, has been appointed through the appropriate procurement process to carry out the audit. This is being overseen by the Chair of the Advisory Board of the NSSO.
The NSSO is fully committed to ensuring that all monies owed to the State are fully recouped and is engaging with impacted individuals to finalise recoupment plans and arrangements.
