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August 14, 2025 | Pensions,

Auto Enrolment vs. Company Pension Scheme: Time to Take It Off the Long Finger

 

In Ireland, putting things on the long finger is practically a tradition. We all do it.

Whether it’s getting the NCT, calling the tax advisor, or finally clearing out the shed—if it’s not urgent, it can wait. And when it comes to pensions? Well, most people will admit it’s somewhere between “I’ll get to it” and “I know I should.”

But with Auto Enrolment arriving in 2026, pensions are about to jump from the long finger to the front burner.

Whether you’re a company director managing a team or an individual trying to get your financial house in order, now is the time to understand what this change means—and how to make it work to your advantage.

 

Should you have any questions on the below, call our Employee Benefits Specialist Dermot on 086 164 7306 or email dermot.feeney@campion.com

 

What is auto-enrolment?

 

Auto Enrolment is a State-backed pension system designed to boost retirement savings for workers who don’t currently have a pension.

If you’re aged 23–60 and earning over €20,000 a year, here’s what you can expect:

  • You’ll be automatically enrolled if you’re not already in a qualifying pension scheme
  • You’ll contribute 1.5% of your gross salary (rising to 6% over 10 years)
  • Your employer matches your contribution
  • The State tops it up with €1 for every €3 you contribute

It’s a well-intentioned solution for a growing pensions gap—but it’s also one-size-fits-all. That’s where a Company Pension Scheme may offer more flexibility and value.

 

Why Company Pension Schemes Matter

 

If you’re already part of a Company Pension Scheme through your employer—or considering setting one up as a company director—you’re likely in a stronger position.

Company pensions often include:

  • Higher or more flexible employer contributions
  • Full tax relief on contributions (unlike Auto Enrolment)
  • Investment choice and planning support
  • Optional extras like life cover, income protection, or retirement workshops
  • A structure that can be tailored to your needs—especially important if you’re self-employed or a business owner

 

Key Differences at a Glance

 

 

So, What’s the Smarter Move?

 

If you’re in a qualifying company scheme already, great. Stay informed and make sure it still works for you.

If you’re not in one, and Auto Enrolment will apply to you or your employees, now’s the time to consider your options. Taking action before the system kicks in gives you control, flexibility, and potentially better outcomes.

And if you’re self-employed or a company director, the benefits of a personal or executive pension could far outweigh what Auto Enrolment offers.

 

Final Word

 

We get it, pensions aren’t always top of the list. But they should be somewhere above clearing out the attic.

As the saying goes: “You’ll never plough a field by turning it over in your mind.”

You don’t have to overhaul everything overnight, but you do need to take a step.

 

Need Advice?

 

Whether you’re a company director or an individual seeking smarter financial planning, Campion Insurance is here to help you capitalise on the opportunity.

We’ll walk you through your options clearly and simply: no jargon, no pressure. Just honest advice to help you take pensions off the long finger and into your future plan.

 

To find out more about Company Pension Schemes, call our Employee Benefits Specialist Dermot on 086 164 7306 or email dermot.feeney@campion.com

 

Campion Insurances Limited trading as Campion Insurance, PIB Global, Bestquote.ie, Future, Venture and ISME Insurance Services is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

 

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