Business costs could hit pension scheme set to benefit women

The private pension auto-enrolment is a new retirement savings system for employees that is set to be introduced in the second half of 2024, but some wait with bated breath

Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys has insisted the plan will launch by the end of the year. Picture: Sam Boal/Collins

A long-awaited government scheme is anticipated to support wealth equality for female workers — but a lack of detail and the rising cost of doing business could crush the plan before it is even implemented.

Employment solicitor Barry Crushell said private pension auto-enrolment could be largely beneficial for women as he is aware of many who enter into “much more precarious part-time and flexible working arrangements than men” and “are likely to be paid less than men in general”.