Pensions Ombudsman urges speed in dispute resolution procedures

Paul Kenny, the Pensions Ombudsman has urged pension scheme trustees to speed up implementation of Internal Disputes Resolution procedures.

These procedures are intended to allow complaints in relation to pension schemes to be dealt with in a constructive manner, without need for referral to the Pensions Ombudsman.

Speaking at a seminar organised by benefit consultants, Watson Wyatt, Kenny said: "There is plenty of evidence that many schemes have yet to formally implement the new procedures. Trustees of schemes that have not yet done so are in breach of requirements and should immediately act to rectify the situation."

Kenny said his office will not accept complaints that have not previously been considered under an Internal Disputes Resolution procedure.

Neil Herlihy, a partner in Watson Wyatt said: "The best way to minimise the incidence of complaints will be to ensure that governance structures, particularly those relating to decision making and delegation, are in place and operating well".