asked the Minister for Social Welfare if short and long-term social welfare benefits increased by a greater or lesser amount than average industrial earnings in the period since 1978; and the extent of the difference in percentage terms in both cases.
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
363.
Between 1978 and 1981, after which information on average industrial earnings is not available, the weekly personal rate of long-term social welfare payments amounting to, on average, £14.49 increased by 90 per cent and the short-term payments amounting to, on average, £12.76 increased by 70 per cent, whereas the increase in average industrial earnings between those years was approximately 60 per cent. The further 25 per cent increase in social welfare payments provided for in this year's budget will effect a further improvement in the position of social welfare beneficiaries relative to average industrial earnings.