The Government is hoping to address the pensions crisis today with the publication of a paper which will examine current retirement ages and the possibility of introducing compulsory pensions for workers.
The paper will examine the implications of various courses of action on a social and economic level and will outline the challenges facing the pensions system.
The latest projections for Ireland's population change over the coming decades will also be addressed.
The Green Paper, originally promised by the Government in March of this year, will be launched today by Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Minister for Finance Brian Cowen and Minister for Social and Family Affairs Martin Cullen.
Options for the reform of both State and supplementary pensions to ensure the adequacy of pension incomes over the coming years will also be examined.
A consultation process aimed at building consensus on pension reforms is also due to be announced today. It will invite contributions from members of the public and interest groups over the coming months.
The paper will also include a focus on particular groups such as those on low incomes and women.