asked the Minister for Social Welfare the real increase in social welfare benefits in each of the last eight years.
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
571.
It has not been possible in the time available to complete the calculations necessary for preparation of a full reply to this question. I will supply the information requested to the Deputy as soon as possible.
572.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the cost in (i) 1980 and (ii) a full year of reducing the qualifying age for the old-age pension to 65 years.
The cost of reducing the qualifying age for the old age pension to 65 years at current rates is estimated at £12.8 million in a full year. The cost in 1980 would depend on the operative date of the change.
573.
asked the Minister for Social Welfare the cost in 1980 of raising the qualifying level for social welfare non-contributory benefits from £6 to £10.
The estimated cost at current rates would be of the order of £4.6 million in a full year. The cost in 1980 would depend on the operative date of the change.