asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether he proposes to increase such allowances as are paid to the unemployed, old age pensioners and other similar dependent groups in order to offset increased expenditure which must follow the recent increase in transport charges.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Transport Charges: Allowances to off set Increased Expenditure.
55.
The rates of social assistance and benefit payable by my Department have never been determined by reference to the level of public transport charges. Rates of assistance payments are fixed, having regard to all the relevant circumstances, by relation to the amount which the Exchequer can reasonably be expected to provide. The level of contributions by employers and employees is, of course, an important determining factor, in the case of benefit payments.
The Deputy is, no doubt, aware that as recently as August last increases estimated to cost the Exchequer £1,313,000 a year were granted in old age pensions, widows' non-contributory pensions and unemployment assistance.
I see no reason why the Parliamentary Secretary should be debarred from establishing increases. Is it not a fact that due to the gross inadequacy of the allowances to-day of the unemployed and old age pensioners, and other similar dependent groups, the unemployment groups in particular, they are on the verge of destitution? These increased charges will mean greater hardship on them and on their children. The Parliamentary Secretary should take steps to see that the allowances are increased in order not to increase that hardships. There is no reason why he should not take a new step. He need not be bound by precedent.
Is it true that the Minister intends to increase the old age pensions and unemployment benefirst in a short time?
There is no answer to that question.