asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is aware of the practice whereby poor people in straitened circumstances barter their children's allowance books to moneylenders who make substantial gains by drawing these allowances; and if he has any comment to make on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Allowance Books.
53.
It is an offence punishable by a fine not exceeding £20 or imprisonment for not more than six months to buy or take in pawn a children's allowance book.
I am aware that there have been isolated instances of recipients giving their allowance books to moneylenders as security for loans but there is no evidence that the practice is widespread. Any case coming to notice is investigated and, in fact, my Department has successfully prosecuted in a number of cases where sufficient evidence was obtained.
If the Deputy is aware of any cases and gives me the names and addresses of the persons concerned, I will arrange to have the matter fully investigated and suitable action taken.