Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.
A list of 2024 codes that we have received can be found here.
For Trustees - IAPF offer Appropriate ongoing Training Hours to our events to help you with your obligations towards your ongoing training.
For Service Providers - IAPF secure CPD hours for our events from the appropriate awarding bodies.
CPD – Professional
As part of our overall services, all IAPF seminars and conferences provide CPD hours from the appropriate external awarding bodies. Please see our Past Events list of events which detail the amount of hours awarded and the related codes.
Appropriate Ongoing Training - Trustees
IAPF now offer trustees a great way to help satisfy the Pensions Authority legal requirements with regards to their ongoing training requirements.
We are happy that IAPF events, which are designed to help, inform and educate trustees, can form part of that appropriate training.
In order to help trustees to log their training we will award Appropriate Ongoing Training hours to our events, in a similar way to CPD accreditation. We think individual trustee boards should themselves determine the level of any ongoing training they require and any particular requirements they might have, taking into account their scheme. We have advised the Pensions Authority that we will be taking this initiative and they do not have any issues with it.
The format of our events means that for IAPF Conferences, we will award 4 Appropriate Ongoing Training hours and for our seminars 1 Appropriate Ongoing Training hour. Simply record your hours and submit to the Pensions Authority if required.
We also have a downloadable template that trustees might find useful for recording all their training.
As Defined Contribution (DC) pension provision becomes increasingly widespread there is a growing need for individuals to develop a better understanding of DC pensions, especially of the DC pension offered by their employer. With this in mind, IAPF developed a benchmarking process to highlight those schemes that offer employees an exceptional pension scheme.
What is the PQS?
The PQS is an award for a DC pension scheme that meets a certain benchmark quality standard. There are three levels awarded: PQS, PQS With Merit and PQS With Merit Plus.
Who is the PQS for?
The PQS is for employers who want to highlight the value of their scheme to their employees. The PQS helps them to do this by showing that the pension plan they offer has received a highly recognised award and is an integral part of the benefits package they offer to employees.
What is measured during the pension scheme assessment?
If the contribution rate is at least 20% (of which the employer contributes at least 15%), the scheme may be awarded a PQS With Merit Plus.
If the contribution rate is at least 15% (of which the employer contributes at least 10%), the scheme may be awarded a PQS With Merit.
Schemes with contribution rates of at least 12% (of which the employer contributes at least 7%) may be awarded the PQS, assuming that appropriate governance and communications strategies are also in place.
More information is available here in the PQS Booklet, which we require you to read in full before you apply.
How long does the PQS last for?
The PQS is awarded to a pension scheme for three years. After this, if the scheme still meets all the requirements, the PQS will be renewed for a further three year duration.
Who can apply for the PQS?
Applications for the PQS will be accepted from IAPF members who run a DC pension scheme.
How do I apply?
First, we ask you to read the PQS Booklet as you will be required to meet the standards therein. We provide an online form for you to fill out and submit. We also require that you forward us on your scheme membership booklet by email to pqs@iapf.ie.
Why do IAPF offer the PQS to DC schemes?
We want to recognise those pension schemes that attain a certain standard which reflects qualitative contribution, communication and governance strategies for DC Schemes. We believe this promotes improved communications and greater appreciation of the pension scheme. This in turn can lead to greater engagement by members and better outcomes in retirement.
Brendan Kennedy
Chief Executive of the Pensions Authority
"The Pensions Authority welcome’s the IAPF’s work to support and recognise good defined contribution pensions. This work acknowledges the increasing importance of DC schemes and of the importance to members of good scheme design and communication."
Colm Fortune
Trustee, Microsoft
"The PQS award re-enforces to our membership that the company pension plan is one of the best in the Irish market place in terms of qualitative contributions, communications and governance strategies for DC pension plans in Ireland and the company is willing to invest the time in offering a pension plan that is fit for purpose and is at the core of the overall benefits package for our employees. The PQS award gives members the comfort that their company pension plan is at the forefront of best practice."
"The Pensions Authority welcome’s the IAPF’s work to support and recognise good defined contribution pensions. This work acknowledges the increasing importance of DC schemes and of the importance to members of good scheme design and communication."
"The PQS award re-enforces to our membership that the company pension plan is one of the best in the Irish market place in terms of qualitative contributions, communications and governance strategies for DC pension plans in Ireland and the company is willing to invest the time in offering a pension plan that is fit for purpose and is at the core of the overall benefits package for our employees. The PQS award gives members the comfort that their company pension plan is at the forefront of best practice."
The PQS Booklet is your complete guide to the Professional Qualifications Scheme, covering everything from eligibility and registration through to examinations, results and continuing development.
