asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether he contemplates giving a much-needed increase to all recipients of social welfare benefits.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Increased Social Welfare Benefits.
21.
The Deputy will no doubt recollect that in accordance with the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1962, which was passed in July, 1962, provision was made for an increase of five shillings a week in the basic rates of social welfare benefits, including widows' and old age contributory pensions; the additions to benefit, or pension, payable in respect of a wife and qualified children are also being increased. The increases come into operation in January, 1963.
Could the Minister oblige by saying what the amount of the increase in the cost of the stamp will be?
It was in the Act. At the moment, I forget—I think it is 9d.
It is two ninepences —1s. 6d.