asked the Minister for Social Welfare the number of applicants for social assistance allowance for single women who have qualified for the full weekly rate.
21.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Single Woman's Allowance.
20.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will reduce the age limit for qualification for social assistance allowance payable to elderly single women.
22.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will abolish the means test for qualification for social assistance allowance for single women.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 20, 21 and 22 together.
946 claimants for single woman's allowance have so far qualified for the allowance at the maximum rate.
This scheme has been in operation only since July last. The scheme is being kept under review with a view to effecting such improvements as experience of the operation of the scheme suggests are desirable. No such changes as the Deputy has requested are at present contemplated.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary say how many applications he received in all?
The number of applications received was 4,080 and the number of awards made was 2,230.
In view of the fact that there is great need for a scheme, especially since single women cannot receive unemployment assistance, would the Parliamentary Secretary consider extending the scheme further?
The House will appreciate that it would not be appropriate to contemplate changing a scheme which has been in existence only since last July. It is essential to find out first how the scheme operates before making changes.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary circulate to Deputies an outline of the conditions and circumstances under which allowances are granted? This would be helpful.
I shall be very glad to send the Deputy all the requisite qualifications for the scheme.