asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether he is aware that even on the basis of the official cost-of-living figure, which up to May last showed an increase of 76 per cent. over the pre-war figure, the increase of 2/6 a week granted on the old age, blind and widows' pensions is entirely inadequate; and if he will increase the present pension by 7/6 a week to enable recipients to purchase the necessities of life at present rates.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Old Age, Blind and Widows' Pensions.
The amount of the increase quoted in the question is a minimum figure. Thus persons in receipt of old age pensions (including blind persons' pensions) receive a supplement to their pensions of 5/- a week if resident in a county borough, borough or incorporated town; and if resident outside those areas and members of necessitous households they are eligible to receive, in addition to the supplement of 2/6 a week, supplementary allowances at the rate of 2/6 a week, together with 1/6 a week for each dependent child, from the public assistance authorities, who are recouped 75 per cent. of their approved expenditure out of State funds. Further, certain pensioners are eligible for the supply of fuel at reduced rates.
The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.
Does the Minister think that these people can exist on this small allowance? Is he not aware that in the last seven or eight years the cost of living has gone up by 100 per cent.? Surely he is not going to starve the old age pensioners, the blind pensioners and the widows and orphans for another seven or eight years?
I explained yesterday that we are preparing a new scheme of social services.
It will be ready for the general election.
Yes, and I hope the Parties opposite will face the next general election and pay for it. That is the point—will they pay for the scheme?
Certainly, by all means. The poor deserve it and should get it.
Is the Minister aware that there is no increase for old age pensioners in county homes, that it goes to the homes instead of the pensioners?
The cost of living does not affect them.
It does affect them.