asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will consider amending the Children's Allowances Act so that all children under the age of 16 will be entitled to the allowance as the majority of farm labourers and poor people are getting no benefit as the Act stands, and it is causing a great grievance throughout the country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Children's Allowances Act.
It is not proposed to amend the Children's Allowances Act on the lines indicated in the question. In view of the fact that the number of children under the age of 16 in rural areas is much greater than the number of such children resident in urban areas, and as the total amount payable under the Children's Allowances Act in a full year is estimated at £2,200,000, I am unable to agree that the majority of farm labourers and poor people are getting no benefit as the Act stands. The amendment of the Act in the manner suggested would increase the cost of the service by approximately £3,000,000.
I would like the Minister to reconsider this matter. As the Act stands it is very unfair, because certain people who do not want family allowances are receiving them and are actually putting the money back into the Post Office. On the other hand, there are many people with two in family, and probably four—two under age and two over age—and they receive no benefit at all under this legislation. Those families have to exist on very small wages. I think the Government should amend this Act in the interests of the people who urgently need this money.
Has the Minister received recommendations from public authorities requesting an amendment of the Act?
That is a separate question.