andMr. McQuillan asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reasons why the long form of birth certificate is required in the case of claims for old age and blind non-contributory pensions, widows' non-contributory pensions, orphans' pensions and in respect of children shown as dependants on a widow's claim; and when he proposes to take steps to make the short certificate acceptable for these payments.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Social Welfare Claims: Form of Birth Certificate.
28.
The long birth certificate has been required in the case of claims for old age non-contributory pensions, widows' non-contributory pensions, orphans' pensions and children shown as dependants on a widow's claim, because certain particulars on the long certificate, which are not given on the short certificate, facilitate the establishment of title to payment and obviate the need for further enquiries and consequential delay.
However, as I stated in reply to a question from the Deputies on 21st ultimo, I am having the matter examined with a view to extending the categories in respect of which the short form of certificate may be accepted.
Will it entail amending legislation?
No, I do not think so.
If there is no question of amending legislation, does the Minister propose to have all the categories referred to in the question dealt with in the manner he suggests?
If it is found to be feasible.
Surely, the Minister must realise that, if production of the long birth certificate is still required for any of these categories, it is making a travesty of the Adoption Bill brought in by his colleague?
I realise that it is undesirable and, if possible, I shall extend the application of the short certificate to all categories.