Tánaiste rules out legislation to block pension increases for former taoisigh and ministers

The Tánaiste Joan Burton again insisted the Government can not legally stop pension increases for former Taoisigh and Ministers.

However, Burton has said it would be an "honourable" thing for them to refuse to accept it.

Bertie Ahern, Brian Cowen and all other former politicians are in line for pension increases of up to €2,000 a year as part of the Lansdowne Road Agreement - that will see pension cuts reversed for all former public servants.

The Tánaiste has ruled out calls for emergency legislation to block the increases and added she hopes these former politicians will decide not to take the money.