If you have a Personal Pension or an Individual PRSA you can take your benefits from age 60. You do not have to retire to take your pension benefits. Some occupations such as fishermen, firefighters and jockeys can retire earlier.
If you are a member of an employer Pension Scheme then, subject to the rules of the scheme, you may be able to take your benefits at any time after your 50th birthday. If you do so between age 50 and 60, you must retire from your job. From age 60 you can continue to work and take your benefits at the same time. There are specific rules relating to company directors though.