asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether an estimate has been made, based on light, food, rent and clothes, essential to maintain average nutritional needs at present costs, to determine the adequacy of pensions paid to old age pensioners, widows and disabled persons.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Nutritional Needs of Social Welfare Classes.
26.
An estimate of the type suggested by the Deputy has not been made by my Department. I would point out however that increases which substantially exceed increases in the consumer price index have been granted over the years since 1957 to old age and widowed pensioners and recipients of disability benefit.
The Minister appears to be satisfied with the position but would he consider instituting a specific inquiry into conditions relating to these old people? Such an inquiry has been instituted in other countries and very valuable information has been gained. Some of these people are living on the verge of starvation.
I do not think there is any need for it. Each year this Government allocate the maximum amount reasonable in increases to social welfare recipients.
They are all living in the lap of luxury.
(Interruptions.)
The income tax rate is at a reasonably high level: you said so yourselves yesterday.
Three pounds ten a week is not very much good these days.
Will Deputies please allow Questions to proceed? We have 155 questions on the Order Paper.