Irish Rail, Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann workers to vote on CIÉ pension deal

Big news is making waves across Ireland — CIÉ and Irish Rail have reached a new pension deal, bringing welcome increases for current employees. But what about those who no longer work there? If you were once employed by Irish Rail, Bus Éireann or any CIÉ company and contributed to a pension scheme, this is your moment to take a closer look at your entitlements.

Many former transport sector workers may have forgotten about a pension left behind. Others may not even realise they’re still eligible to access it. The 2025 news about pay and pension increases is the perfect time to take stock.

Why This Matters for Former CIÉ Workers?

You might be wondering:

• “I left Irish Rail years ago — does any of that pension still apply to me?”
• “Can I access or unlock my CIÉ pension early?”
• “Is there a way to check if I have money sitting in a former workplace scheme?”

The short answer? Yes, in many cases you can.

Thousands of former Irish Rail and Bus Éireann employees may still have frozen pensions sitting untouched. If you moved on in your career, changed industries, or took early retirement, you might be eligible to unlock those pension funds before traditional retirement age.

Spotlight on Recent Pension News for Irish Rail Workers

The recent announcement about pension changes for Irish Rail workers has caught the attention of many, not just those currently employed but also former staff who may have left their pensions behind. This update reflects ongoing efforts to improve retirement outcomes for employees and pensioners alike.

Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Transport, welcomed the news, stating:
“It’s a strong example of proactive and inclusive dialogue that prioritises long-term outcomes for employees and pensioners alike.”

This statement highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring fair and sustainable pension arrangements, reinforcing the importance of staying informed and engaged with your pension options—whether you are still with Irish Rail or have moved on.

What the 2025 Pension Deal Doesn’t Cover

While current staff are celebrating this boost, former employees are not automatically included. That’s why it’s so important to:

✅ Check what pension you paid into while employed
✅ Understand your current value and options
✅ Take action to prevent money from sitting idle

Don’t Wait for a Letter in the Post

With pension schemes, out of sight too often means out of mind. You won’t always get a reminder to follow up. But you do have the right to inquire, take control, and potentially unlock what’s yours.

“If you ever worked for Irish Rail, Bus Éireann, or CIÉ and you’re not sure about your pension status, call us today — we’ll help you trace and release it.”
— Q Financial Pension Team

What to Do Next

At UnlockPension.ie, we specialise in helping former employees of state and semi-state companies trace, review, and unlock pension funds early. We know the CIÉ and Irish Rail pension systems inside out, and we can quickly tell you if you have something worth claiming.

💳 You earned it. Let us help you claim it.
visit www.unlockpension.ie
📞 Call us now: 091 421 900

Don’t let your past pension get left behind. With the spotlight on CIÉ pensions in 2025, there’s never been a better time to find out what’s yours.

Helpful Sources

1. Irish Times article about the pension deal:
   https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/05/15/workers-to-vote-on-cie-pension-deal/

2. CIÉ Group official website (for pension info):
   https://www.cie.ie/careers/pensions

3. Irish Rail official website (general info):
   https://www.irishrail.ie/

4. Department of Transport Ireland:
   https://www.gov.ie/en/organisation/department-of-transport/

5. Citizens Information on pensions in Ireland:
   https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/older_and_retired_people/state_pension.html

6. Pensions Authority Ireland:
   https://www.pensionsauthority.ie/en/

🛤️ Irish Rail Pension Changes: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What recent pension changes have been announced for Irish Rail workers?

In May 2025, it was announced that nearly 6,400 former CIÉ employees, including those from Irish Rail, will receive pension increases ranging from 3% to 5%, depending on their retirement date. This marks the first pension increase for these workers in 17 years.

Who is eligible for the pension increase?

The pension increase applies only to retired employees of CIÉ group companies (Irish Rail, Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus) who retired on or before December 31, 2022. The increases are phased based on retirement year:

• Retired in 2020: 5% increase

• Retired in 2021: 4% increase

• Retired in 2022: 3% increase

This pension increase does not apply to current employees or former employees who have not yet retired. The Irish Times

3. How can I find out if I’m eligible for the pension increase?

You can contact the CIÉ Pension Office directly at +353 1 677 1871 or via email at pensions@cie.ie for confirmation of your eligibility and details about the increase.

5. I’m a former Irish Rail employee; can I still access my pension?
Yes, former employees are entitled to access their pensions. If you’ve lost contact with your pension provider or need help locating your pension, you should contact the CIÉ Pension Office.

Alternatively, you can contact us at 091 421 900 for expert guidance on unlocking your pension early and understanding your options — making the process easier and more rewarding.

6. How can I unlock my pension early if I’m over 50?

If you’re over 50 and have a pension from a previous employer, including Irish Rail, you may be eligible to unlock your pension early. It’s recommended to consult with a pension advisor to understand your options and the implications of early withdrawal.

7. What are the tax implications of accessing my pension early?

Accessing your pension early can have tax implications. Generally, you can take up to 25% of your pension pot as a tax-free lump sum, subject to certain limits. The remaining amount will be subject to income tax upon withdrawal. It’s essential to seek professional advice to understand the specific tax implications for your situation.

8. Where can I get more information or assistance regarding my pension?

For personalized advice and assistance, you can contact Q Financial at 091 421 900. Our team specializes in helping individuals navigate pension options and ensure they make informed decisions about their retirement savings.

Q Financial Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Our pension advisory services comply fully with the Consumer Protection Code and all relevant financial legislation in Ireland. We prioritize transparency, professionalism, and the protection of your interests at all times. Before making any decisions regarding pension schemes or unlocking pension benefits, we recommend seeking independent financial advice tailored to your individual circumstances.