Irish News Ireland Delays Pension Auto-Enrolment to January 2026 for Smoother Rollout

The Government pushes back the launch of My Future Fund to align with the tax year and support smaller businesses, but trade unions criticize the move.

The Irish Government has postponed the start of its pension auto-enrolment scheme, My Future Fund, from September 30, 2025, to January 1, 2026. Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary announced the delay, citing the need to align the system with the standard tax year and provide additional preparation time for payroll providers and employers, particularly small and micro businesses.

Ensuring a Smooth Launch​

The auto-enrolment system aims to help over 800,000 workers save for retirement by automatically enrolling employees aged 23 to 60, earning over €20,000 annually across all employments, who are not already in an occupational pension scheme. Contributions will begin at 1.5% for both employers and employees, increasing by 1.5% every three years until reaching 6% by the tenth year. The State will contribute €1 for every €3 saved by the employee, matching the employer’s €3 contribution. While enrolment is automatic, employees can opt out or suspend participation after six months.

Calleary emphasized the importance of a well-prepared rollout, stating, “My Future Fund will help hundreds of thousands of hardworking people in Ireland put money aside for their life after work. It is important that we start on the right foot and bring all stakeholders along with us.” The delay, he added, responds to feedback from extensive consultations, ensuring that operational and payroll systems are ready, especially for smaller providers and businesses.

Trade Unions Voice Discontent​

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) criticized the delay, framing it within a broader pattern of Government backtracking. An ICTU spokesperson highlighted recent decisions, including halving promised sick pay from ten to five days, delaying the living wage for three years, and deferring the abolition of sub-minimum wage rates for young workers. “Delaying bringing an end to our failed voluntary approach to occupational pensions will be a bitter pill to swallow for the 811,000 workers without a workplace pension,” the spokesperson said, warning of plummeting income and living standards in retirement for those affected.

Balancing Readiness and Urgency​

The delay reflects the Government’s effort to balance the need for a robust launch with the practical challenges faced by smaller stakeholders. However, the ICTU’s criticism underscores the urgency felt by workers awaiting better retirement security. As the new start date approaches, the Government will need to address these concerns to ensure My Future Fund delivers on its promise of financial stability for Ireland’s workforce.