THE TÁNAISTE HAS denied reports that the Government is considering cuts to the State pension.

It comes after The Irish Times stated today that the Government may be considering cutting the basic rates of the State pension and that a review has been carried out.

However, Joan Burton said the current rates are “absolutely secure” and that the Government is committed to maintaining them.

She told RTÉ that the discussion paper referred to by the Irish Times “does not represent official Government policy – which is to protect the State pension given its enormous importance to older people”.

The paper reported today that officials from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform have carried out a review and have strong concerns about the overall sustainability of the State pension and future expenditure levels.

The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform also issued a statement denying the reports.

Read: Poll- Do you agree that the State pension should be cut?>