Will the Minister confirm whether the Local Government Pension Scheme rules permit Natural Resources Wales to purchase additional years for employees who are Local Government Pension Scheme members to equalise the benefits between the Local Government Pension Scheme and the Civil Service Pension schemes for employees?
As a Welsh Government Arms-Length Body Natural Resources Wales (NRW’s) decisions around its staff terms and conditions are wholly its responsibility. It would be inappropriate for me as Minister to pass comments on NRW’s position, practically while discussions and negotiations are on-going.
In addition to this, the member will also be aware, the Regulations that govern the Local Government Pension Scheme are not devolved and remain the responsibility of the Department for Work and Pensions.