asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he can supply figures of what it would cost the State to provide social services on a par with those in the EEC countries; and, if not, if he will arrange to have them compiled and supplied to Members.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Social Services.
16.
There is a wide variety of social security systems in the member countries of the European Economic Community and it is not possible, therefore, to provide the figures sought.
As it is the intention of this country to join the Common Market can there not be some arrangement made to improve our social services and if this can be done could the Minister say what level we might reach?
It is not expected that entry into the EEC will interfere with the progress the Government have been making in improving social welfare services.
Could the Minister not imitate the diligence of his colleague who investigated legal practices in these countries, to a great extent? Perhaps the Minister could do the same as far as social welfare is concerned.
The Minister has all the information he needs.
He might do as well as the Minister for Justice who knows all about legal practice in Europe.
Question No. 17.
The Minister will agree that the changes involved should be considered? There will be a tremendous increase in the standard of living.