asked the Minister for Social Welfare if it is his intention in the near future to increase the present inadequate rates of non-contributory old age and widows' and orphans' pensions, blind pensions, unemployment assistance, and children's allowances.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Increased Social Welfare Benefits.
28.
The rates payable are, of course, laid down by statute and I have no power to increase them. Under the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1962, increases were provided in non-contributory old age, blind and widows' and orphans' pensions and in unemployment assistance. These increases took effect from August, 1962, since when there has been no increase in the consumer price index. The Deputy may, however, rest assured that the question of improving the rates of social assistance consonant with our resources is constantly in my mind.