asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether any legislation sponsored by his Department and passed by the Houses of the Oireachtas requires the issuing of ministerial regulations before becoming fully operational; the date of the passage of any such legislation; and the present position regarding the preparation of the regulations required.
Written Answers. - Ministerial Regulations.
79.
There are a number of provisions contained in the Social Welfare Act, 1989 which was signed by the President on 26 March 1989, which are to be brought into force by way of regulations. A number of these regulations will be made in July next to coincide with the general increase in the rates of social welfare payments announced in this year's budget. The remaining provisions will be brought into force later this year.
Section 28 of the Social Welfare Act, 1988, which was signed by the President on 30 March 1988, as amended by section 24 of the Social Welfare Act, 1989 provides for the introduction of a pre-retirement allowance to be brought into force by way of ministerial order. This scheme will be brought into force as soon as the necessary administrative arrangements have been made.
There are various other regulatory powers contained in the Social Welfare Acts which empower but do not require the Minister to amend or extend certain provisions of the Acts. These provisions are brought into effect as considered necessary from time to time.