Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien, has today signed the Statutory Instruments necessary to give effect to the agreed reform of CIÉ Pension Schemes.
This brings to a close a significant and long-running process and paves the way for payment of a 5% pension increase to nearly 5,000 eligible CIÉ pensioners.
The reform follows extensive engagement between CIÉ Group and the CIÉ Trade Union
Group (comprising of Connect, NBRU, SIPTU, TAAS and Unite). The proposals received the support of union members in both CIÉ pension schemes in a ballot in August 2025.“Signing these Statutory Instruments today is a pivotal moment in the long-running process of securing a more sustainable future for CIÉ pensions and delivering progress for all eligible pensioners. I am pleased to see a long-awaited increase in pensions being delivered and I have been fully supportive of this process since becoming Minister for Transport.
“Reaching this stage has required sustained engagement and a willingness from all sides to work through complex issues. I would like to thank the CIÉ Group, the CIÉ Trade Union Group, pensioner representatives, the Department of Transport’s advisers in NewERA, and officials in the Department of Transport and Department of Public Expenditure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, for their commitment and work in achieving this outcome. I would also like to thank An Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister for Public Expenditure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers, for their steadfast support through this process.”
Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien
“The completion of this CIÉ pension reform provides certainty for current and future members while ensuring that eligible pensioners can now benefit from a long-awaited pension increase.
“The agreement reflects the commitment shown by all parties over many years to find a balanced and sustainable solution to a complex challenge. I want to acknowledge the constructive engagement of all involved in helping bring this process to a successful conclusion.”
Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney
The proposals were approved jointly by Minister O’Brien and Minister for Public Expenditure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers. Approval followed a detailed examination of the Scheme parameters in line with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies, primary legislation under the Transport Act, 1950, and other associated requirements. The completion of the subsequent statutory process marks an important step in addressing longstanding challenges facing pension provision across the Group.
The package establishes a new framework for the future of CIÉ Group pension schemes. This includes the introduction of a defined contribution scheme for new employees, and the closure of existing defined benefit schemes to new entrants. It also incorporates changes for current scheme members and an approved payment increase for eligible pensioners. These measures are intended to improve the long-term sustainability of pension arrangements for the benefit of retired, existing and future Group employees, and manage the financial risks associated with existing pension liabilities.
As administrators of the Scheme, CIÉ Holding Company will progress the administrative and operational steps required to implement the reforms. For further information and detail, please visit https://www.cie.ie/
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