Automatic enrolment within Ireland is a priority but it will take time to “get right”, according to Social Protection Minister Leo Varadkar.

In an interview with the Irish Independent, Varadkar expressed his concerns at the current pensions crisis facing workers in Ireland but “reform and simplification” are what is needed to restore confidence.

In relation to his plans for a universal system, the minister said it will "take time, and it's important that we get it right".

"My strong view is that successful pension reform is only possible with a broad social consensus, or at least a good measure of it. The introduction of a universal pension system will be the most fundamental reform of our pension system in a generation and will benefit many more generations to come.

"It's essential that we do this thoughtfully and carefully so that future pensioners will benefit from comfortable as well as long retirements. And it's also essential that we grasp the nettle and get on with it. The Universal Retirement Savings Group is currently studying this area and will advise the Government when it concludes its work."

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