(Junior) asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if any decision has been arrived at with reference to the claims of the unemployed for increased rates of unemployment assistance payments; and if, in view of the increased cost of living, he proposes to introduce proposals for legislation for the purpose of increasing the rates.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Unemployment Assistance Payments.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether, in view of the substantial increase in the cost of living since the Unemployment Assistance Act was introduced in 1933, he proposes to introduce proposals for legislation to increase the rates of benefit under the Act.
I propose to answer Questions Nos. 7 and 8 together. No decision has yet been reached on the question of increasing the rates of unemployment assistance.
Would the Minister say whether any proposals for increasing the rates of benefit are at present under consideration?
The Deputy can take it that the matter has been under continuous examination by my Department.
I should like to have an early decision on the matter, and to have some information as to when the necessary legislation will be introduced.
In view of the increase in the amount of Savings Certificates and all the other increases, as well as the increase in the circulation of money generally, is there not a case, on general grounds, for an increase in the rates of benefit?
Will the Minister take into consideration the fact that the substantial increase in the cost of living has had the effect of depressing the value of the present rates of benefit and, in view of that fact, will he consider the advisability of expediting the necessary legislation?
The Deputy may be sure that all relevant considerations will be taken into account.
Does the Minister really realise that there has been an increase in the cost of living?