Legal issues hindering pension reform: Hayes

Legal and constitutional challenges restrict further reductions of premium pensions for politicians and office holders, according to junior finance minister Brian Hayes.

His comments came as Independent TDs called for a 50% cut to pensions for politicians, office holders and state-appointed officials. Expenses should also be reduced, say the group.

The Technical Group says the public will not accept demands for austerity if senior politicians, public servants and judges are drawing down huge sums.