....errr, getting back to pensions
I point I want to bring up is the notion of "phased fund switching" which basically means that as you approach retirement more and more of your fund goes into deposits, government gilts, bonds etc. (i.e. very secure assets that are unlikely to fluctuate much).
This means that you shouldnt be totally screwed if you happen to retire during a bad year in the markets. I know its a basic statement but I think people may have this fear.
Diversification is key to avoiding big losses - dont put all your eggs in one basket (more basic commonsense). In my own case I've a AVC PRSA scheme with Eagle Star (together with a recent employer scheme) and so far I've diversified goodo into high risk stuff around the globe, its doing ok so far and maybe it'll tank some year or other but its got 20 years before I even start thinking about retirement. So on average across a wide portfolio I should be ok.
Also, when markets are down you buy in cheap - now you might also be "catching a falling knife", but with 20 years to play with then, on average, history would show that you should make returns above deposits/more secure investment.
With the tax relief involved I think its undeniable that pensions should form part of someones financial picture, notwithstanding the misgivings people have about various aspects of the industry (& I'm not in the industry myself).