asked the Minister for Finance if he will increase social welfare payments immediately to ease the pressure of inflation on the lowest paid workers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Social Welfare Payments.
19.
I will naturally be reviewing the general level of social welfare payments in the context of the preparation of my forthcoming budget. I would remind the Deputy that the pay-related benefit scheme, which will come into operation in April next, will improve the standard of living of sick and unemployed workers by providing an earnings-related supplement to the existing flat rate unemployment and disability benefits. This scheme should do much to safeguard such workers on a continuing basis against the pressure of inflation.