These slides deal with some of the fundamental issues impacting on Defined Benefit (DB) Schemes in Ireland, focusing on the causes of the ongoing problems impacting on such Schemes, as well as looking at some of the various alternatives available in finding the necessary solutions. We look at the impact of the credit crunch on Pension Funds as well as the impact of pursuing an investment strategy with a high equity content, especially with a high concentration of Irish equities through the traditional Managed Fund approach. From an investment strategy approach, we touch upon the key elements of a diversified investment approach and how the impact of diversification can assist in reducing risk and increasing return. We also we share the results of the our 2008 Hewitt Global Risk Survey as extrapolated from the Irish respondents and, finally, we get a UK perspective on the future of DB Schemes where there is now a very strong movement towards "End Game".

View the Cork DB presentation.

View the Dublin DB presentation.

View the Limerick DB presentation.

These slides initially summarise the findings of our Hewitt 2008 DC Survey and then focus on member behaviour which is now seen as a key element in determining the level of pension that a member can expect at retirement.

This leads on to the impact of Communication programmes and how tailoring of the message to certain sub-groups of the membership can also assist in maximising benefits at retirement.

Finally, as always with a DC Pension Scheme, we focus on investment returns with emphasis on Lifestyle funds and the impact of increased diversification on members funds at retirement.

View the Cork DC presentation.

View the Dublin DC presentation.

View the Limerick DC presentation.