939. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if his Department is looking at the pension abatement issue; if his Department is considering exceptions for those who are carrying out critical work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59411/26]

The abatement of public service pensions is provided for in Section 52 of the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012 – the "Single Scheme Act", however the principle of abatement is longstanding and dates back to the Superannuation Act, 1834. In the context of public service pensions, abatement is the suspension or reduction in an individual’s public service pension(s) where that individual is re-employed in the public service.

Abatement policy ensures that a retired public servant receives only the amount of pension, that when combined with the remuneration in their new post, does not contribute to them exceeding the pensionable remuneration of their former position. It should be noted that only the pension is abated - the individual is entitled to the full remuneration associated with the new post.

In respect of retired public servants, there is discretion under Section 52(4) of the Single Scheme Act to grant a waiver of abatement. Circular 24/2022 Explanatory Document, available on www.publicservicepensions.gov.ie/, contains a checklist of what is required for a public service body to submit a business case in order for my Department to consider the granting of a waiver of abatement.

In respect of individuals carrying out critical work, should Departments deem it appropriate to apply for a waiver of abatement under the above mentioned business case. My Department assess each waiver application on its merits.

It should be noted waivers are generally granted only in exceptional circumstances and for a limited period of time.