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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 13 Nov 1986

Vol. 369 No. 10

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Public Expenditure Cutbacks Effects.

12.

asked the Minister for Social Welfare if she will ensure that the weakest and most vulnerable sections of society will be protected in any envisaged cutbacks by the Government in public expenditure; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

The Government have given a firm commitment that, despite the gravity of the recession and its impact on social welfare expenditure, they will endeavour to maintain the living standards of all people who depend on social welfare for their needs.

Despite the very difficult financial situation, the Government have more than fulfilled their commitment to maintain the value of social welfare payments and have, in fact, provided real increases in the levels of those payments. In the period mid-May 1983 to mid-May 1987 the increase in the consumer price index is expected to be of the order of 22 per cent. In that period the long-term unemployed will have got increases of about 40 per cent, other long-term recipients, such as pensioners, will have got increases amounting to 33 per cent and short-term beneficiaries will have received increases amounting to 30 per cent.

Is the Minister aware that there is great public disquiet as a result of statements made by the Taoiseach and other members of the Government in relation to cuts in public expenditure, and that it might be necessary to cut back on social welfare payments next year? The poorer sections of the community are very worried about this threat to their very limited income.

I am aware that the poorer sections of the community would be very concerned about this, but it is the Government's responsibility to make sure that the country's finances are so managed that we will be able to protect the most vulnerable in our society.

Is the Minister aware of the statements which have been made by some of her colleagues in Government that cutbacks will have to be made and that people are very concerned about this? Will she resist any attempt by her colleagues in Government to cut back on social welfare payments?

I am fully aware of the statements made by my colleagues and by many other groups about the need for extremely careful control of Government expenditure, and I agree with those statements. The second part of the Deputy's question, as he is aware, cannot be answered.

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