The Pensions Ombudsman has said he wants Government Ministers to take greater responsibility for dealing with problems in the pensions sector.
Paul Kenny was speaking as his Annual Report for 2006 was published by the Social and Family Affairs Minister, Martin Cullen.
Speaking at the launch, Mr Cullen said the report indicated clearly that there was a need for the Ombudsman.
Last year the Pensions Ombudsman received 439 complaints, an increase of 13% in his case load. Three years in existence, the office has dealt with 1,700 cases so far.
Last year 117 of the cases were resolved by mediation, but a number had to be dealt with using the Pensions Act.
Mr Kenny said he wanted the Minister and his Cabinet colleagues to take greater responsibility for the issue of pensions and loopholes in the pensions area.
He went as far as to suggest that the Government could be held legally responsible for failing people in this regard.
In response Mr Cullen said he would raise the issue with his colleagues and ensure all cases be dealt with as soon as possible.
