382. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the timeline for the payment of the pension increase for Eircom retired workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11257/26]

Further to section 46 of the Postal and Telecommunications Act 1983, as amended, and section 10 of the eircom superannuation scheme rules, my Department last year received a request for a pension increase of 2.1% for Eir (formerly Eircom and Telecom Éireann) pensioners, in respect of both pre and post vesting day service, with effect from 01 July 2025.

My officials sought the advice of the New Economy and Recovery Authority (NewERA) on this pension increase proposal, who have now submitted their report. My officials will shortly make a submission to me on the matter and I will carefully consider the NewERA recommendations before making any determination on whether to approve the request. The consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation will also be required for the pension increase in the event that I give my approval.

The process to consider pension increase requests in respect of the Eir superannuation scheme and in respect of pension schemes of commercial state bodies is a rigorous, multi-stage process requiring formal NewERA advice and consideration by both Ministers. Accordingly, it is not possible to set out a definite timeframe as to when a final decision will be made on the Eir pension increase request.