Sir, - I want to ask a simple question in view of the very generous and multiple pensions which politicians have awarded themselves after only two or three years' service, and also having noted that while carrying on a similar full-time "job", with full salary, special tax considerations and very generous allowances, they can also retain these pensions (which include sometimes several ministerial pensions).
If a citizen of this State claims their contributory pension (after a lifetime's work) they must forfeit their widow's or widower's pension, which was earned by their partner (also after a lifetime's work and contributions).
The rule is, one is told, that no one can claim two pensions, even though these pensions have been earned by contributions.
Why, then, are such extraordinary privileges self-granted bu politicians in this "democratic" State? Surely this is unjust and impinges on the laws of regarding equality. - Yours, etc.,
M. O'Tierney, Donnybrook, Dublin 4.