The Department of Finance has a Frequently Asked Questions document available on its website in respect of the pension-related deduction from the remuneration of public servants.

The first question in the document asks-what is the purpose of the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2009. The answer goes on to state that the measures were introduced to stabilise public finances and that the savings accruing from these measures will be remitted to the benefit of the Exchequer.

In the context of the shortfall in the Exchequer, we are all faced with the prospect of further public finance stabilisation measures in the public interest.

The Frequently Asked Questions are available at http://www.finance.gov.ie/documents/publications/other/2009/faqlevy4mar09.pdf