asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is yet in a position to state when the Bill to improve the lot of social welfare recipients will be introduced and the extent of any increases proposed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Social Welfare Recipients.
17.
Mr. R. Barry, Mr. L. Burke, Mr. Burton, Mr. P. Barry
I assume the question refers to the proposed scheme of pay-related disability and unemployment benefit which was the subject of a question on 19th January last. As I indicated in my reply to that question, preparation of the scheme has now reached an advanced stage and full details will be made available when the necessary legislation has been prepared. I am not yet in a position to say when this legislation will be introduced.
Is there any explanation as to why a question answered on 19th January is answered again today while one of mine was turned down because a similar question was answered on 17th November last?
I will look into that point.
I would be very grateful to the Ceann Comhairle.
18.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will investigate the case of a person (name supplied), at present living on £1.68 per week British pension, whose applications for many different kinds of assistance have not been successful.
A claim for a retirement pension from the person is under examination in my Department at present and a decision will be given as soon as possible. In December, 1971, he applied for home assistance and was refused by the local assistance authority which, after investigation, was not satisfied that the person's means are as stated in the Deputy's question. As the Deputy is aware, the granting or refusal of home assistance is a matter entirely for the local public assistance authority and I am precluded by law from directing the giving of home assistance in a particular case.