asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will introduce the legislation necessary to provide for an increase of 10/- a week in the maximum rate of unemployment assistance payable under the Social Welfare Act, 1957, and for pro rata increases in the other rates.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Unemployment Assistance.
Unemployment assistance rates were recently increased to offset as far as possible the effect of the ending of the food subsidies, and it is not proposed to increase them further.
Even next year?
I should like to suggest that the Parliamentary Secretary should give the matter consideration. I am aware that the present financial position does not permit of great generosity on the part of the State but I would point out that in reply to a question that I put down last June——
The Deputy is making a speech, not asking a question.
Pardon?
The Deputy is advancing an argument in favour of his contention, not asking a question.
I was about to substantiate my reason for asking the Parliamentary Secretary.
I could not allow that. It would be a form of debate rather than the asking of a question.