asked the Minister for Social Welfare how soon he will publish the legislative proposals for the provision of a pay-related unemployment and disability benefit scheme which the Third Programme: Economic and Social Development states have been approved by the Government.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Unemployment and Disability Benefit.
49.
I am not yet in a position to say when legislative proposals will be ready.
Having regard to the fact that the programme was published four and half months ago and that at that time it was stated the proposals had received the approval of the Government, can the Minister say why it is that at least the plans in respect of those proposals cannot now be disclosed?
The plans are decided but there are some fairly difficult technical matters to be ironed out before the Bill can be introduced.
Would the Minister not consider publishing a white paper or something on those lines so that discussion could now begin and be usefully conducted? Many people are concerned in this and it could be advantageous to have those discussions now.
If it looks as if the Bill will be delayed for any considerable time we will consider doing that.