asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will state the percentage increase in the cost of living since the last increase in unemployment benefit was granted, and the percentage increase in benefit which will result from the implementation of the proposed new rate.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Unemployment Benefit Increase.
The last increase in the rates of unemployment benefit was effective from 3rd July, 1952. Between mid-May, 1952, and mid-May, 1956, the consumer price index increased by 16.5 per cent. The implementation of the new rates of unemployment benefit will increase the present rates as follows:—
25 per cent. for single man or woman and for married man and wife;
23.3 per cent. for married man, wife and one child;
22 per cent. for married man, wife and two children;
22.6 per cent. for married man and one child;
21.1 per cent. for married man and two children.
It should be noted, however, that the rates of unemployment benefit payable since July, 1952, are those which were proposed in the Social Welfare (Insurance) Bill, 1951, and between mid-May, 1951, and mid-May, 1956, the Consumer Price Index rose by 23 per cent.