asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he intends to give a bonus to social welfare recipients at Christmas-time.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Social Welfare Christmas Bonus.
31.
I have no proposals for legislation of this nature at present.
Would the Minister agree that he could make himself a real Santa Claus in the eyes of old age pensioners if he gave them something of the order of £10? He should examine the suggestion because it would be an excellent gesture.
As the Deputy is aware this is considered from year to year; it is a hardy annual. I do not know if I would fit into the role of Santa Claus.
It was only of interest to the Opposition.
I do not think I proposed that from the Opposition benches.
One of the Minister's colleagues did.
I have no doubt that the Minister will be sympathetic about this and do the big thing.
The Deputy is stroking my beard.
Will the Minister ensure that some of the EEC butter is given to old age pensioners?
We will be on butter later.
The bread is not buttered on both sides.
The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.