AI Summary of 26B. Pensions Council.
The Pensions Council, established under section 29 of the Social Welfare and Pensions (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2013, aims to provide advisory support to the Minister on pension-related matters. It is composed of a chairperson and between 8 and 12 ordinary members appointed by the Minister, including representatives from various governmental departments and individuals with relevant expertise.
Members hold office for a term not exceeding five years, with eligibility for reappointment. Provisions are in place for resignation, removal on grounds of incapacity or misbehaviour, and disqualification due to bankruptcy or criminal conviction. The Minister also sets the operational procedures of the Council.
26B. Pensions Council.
(1) On the commencement of section 29 of the Social Welfare and Pensions (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2013 there shall stand established a body to be known, in the English language, as the Pensions Council or, in the Irish language, as An Chomhairle Pinsean to perform the functions assigned to it by this section.
(2) The functions of the Pensions Council shall be to advise the Minister, either on its own initiative or at the Minister’s request, on matters relating to pensions generally.
(3) The Pensions Council shall consist of the following members -
(a) a chairperson, and
(b) not fewer than 8, and not more than 12, ordinary members.
(4) The members of the Pensions Council shall be appointed by the Minister in accordance with this section.
(5) The Minister shall designate one member of the Pensions Council as chairperson.