165. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport when he will approve the agreed increases to retired staff of Eir; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17692/26]

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 August received a request for a pension increase of 2.1% for Eir pensioners, in respect of both pre and post vesting day service, with effect from 01 July 2025.

My officials sought the advice of NewERA on this pension increase proposal, who submitted their report on 06 February. Having considered the report, I approved the pension increase on 12 February, after which my officials sought the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure. I am aware that the Minister for Public Expenditure gave his consent to the pension increase on 23 February. I can also confirm that the Minister for Finance gave his concurrence to the proposed increase on 03 March.