Pensioners to benefit but workforce ignored

Minister Cowen has done little to encourage workers to pay into pensions, writes David Clerkin.

BRIAN COWEN took care of pensioners yesterday but did little to encourage those still in the workforce to make their own plans for their post-retirement income.

The State pension went up €12 per week, or 7%, to €179.30, while the Old Age Non-Contributory Pension, which is means-tested, will rise to €166 per week next year. Mr Cowen said the increases left the Government “well on the way” to reaching its commitment of giving pensioners €200 per week by 2007.