Sir, – The letter of William J Silke (February 14th) refuting Colm McCarthy’s assertion that “public service pensions have been spared the cutbacks” (Opinion, February 11th) resonates with me.
I have read the same sentiment about these pensions often in our national press. I too am a public service pensioner subject to both pension levy and USC. Like Mr Silke I am not entitled to any social welfare payment. I retired early from teaching due to a hearing disability.
On the lowest income tax band, I pay €132 a month for my medication, all my GP and consultant bills and, of course, my health insurance. Winter fuel bills are a nightmare. I dip into my small savings a few times a year just to pay bills. When I go on holiday it is usually to friends or family. The one concession I have from the Government is my free travel pass. I resent very much the general perception in the media that public service pensions have been spared the cutbacks. – Yours, etc,