Retired midlands teachers hear president speak of ‘pensions risk’

The Midlands Branch of the Retired Secondary Teachers Association – whose membership is drawn from teachers who previously served in second-level schools in Westmeath, Offaly and neighbouring counties – met recently for their pre-Christmas lunch at Browne’s on the Green restaurant in Tyrrellspass.

Warning of the risk that any ‘slowing-down in economic activity’ might tempt government to raid teachers’ pensions pot, those present at the event heard their president, Susie Hall (seated centre in the accompanying photo) stress that it is vital “members remain vigilant in ensuring that parity is maintained between pension payments to retired teachers and the salaries paid to serving second-level teachers”.

Ms Hall, a former languages teacher at Malahide Community School, also stressed the value of RSTA membership as a means of maintaining social contacts, especially for those who may be living alone.

She encouraged those present to try to increase membership and thanked the ASTI for all its support to the RSTA.