asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether he is aware that smallholders in the Portmagee and other areas in South Kerry whose valuation exceeds £4 are debarred from qualifying for unemployment assistance from March to November of each year; and if, in view of the hardship caused to these smallholders, he will amend the regulations and raise the valuation to £4 10s. 0d. in order to enable them to qualify for this benefit.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - South Kerry Smallholders.
I am aware that Employment Period Orders of recent years had the effect of excluding from the receipt of unemployment assistance during the period from mid-March to late October persons resident in non-municipal towns and rural areas who are occupiers of land the rateable valuation of which exceeds £4. The Deputy will appreciate that the valuation limit is of general application and that a change cannot be made in it without examination of the whole position. The Deputy's representations will, however, be borne in mind when the question of future Employment Period Orders is being considered.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the previous Government increased the valuation limit from £2 to £4 and in view of the increased cost of living would he not consider raising it to £4 10s. 0d. as suggested by Deputy Flynn?
As a gesture to the returned prodigal.