A Government pension bonus for those who work until they are 70 will apply to farmers, Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue confirmed to the Irish Farmers Journal.

“The pension arrangements will apply to everyone, absolutely,” the minister said. He described it as a “very sensible proposal” but also said it’s important that the Government maintains the age of retirement at 66.

“It’s a sensible approach in relation to providing the capacity for people to work longer should they wish and also to be able to earn a higher pension when they work longer and that will include farmers as well,” he said.

Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys announced this week that the State pension age will remain at 66 where retirees will receive a weekly €253 payment. Those who work until they are 70 will receive up to €315. PRSI increases “will be needed in the future” to pay for the plan, Minister Humphreys said.