Sinn Féin spokesperson on Communications, Climate Action and the Environment David Cullinane TD has described reports that social welfare payments will have to be cut if the pension age is not raised as “cynical and petty”.

He said that “Sinn Féin is the only party that will guarantee a State pension at 65”.

He said:

“Reports have emerged today that social welfare cuts will be necessary if the pension age is not raised. This is a cynical and petty narrative, and is is disingenuous. It is nothing more than scaremongering.

“As I have said before, a move by Fianna Fáil to renege on their commitment to stop changes to the pension age is despicable.

“Reverting the pension age to 65 can be paid for through reform of the PRSI system and by increasing employers’ PRSI on incomes in excess of €100,000.

“Sinn Féin is the only party that is clear and unequivocal on this issue – everyone should have the right to retire on a State pension at 65 if they choose. Workers deserve dignity in retirement.

“The people have demanded change on this issue.”