(This note is not part of the Order)

This Order is made only for purposes corresponding to those of the Pensions (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1990 (c. 7).

The Order principally amends the Pensions (Increase) Act (Northern Ireland) 1971 and the Superannuation (Northern Ireland) Order 1972. Among the changes are—

a

amendments to the qualifying conditions for pensions increase under Part I of the Act of 1971 to provide for the equal treatment of male and female pensioners in certain respects (Article 3);

b

provision for the cost of pensions increase under that Act for teachers and health service employees to be defrayed by contributions from their employers (Article 6);

c

amendments of the Order of 1972 connected with additional voluntary contributions (Articles 9 and 10); and

d

changes in the protection under the Order of 1972 against adverse alterations (Articles 11 and 12).