Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 25 Apr 1990

Vol. 397 No. 9

Written Answers. - Family Income Supplement Scheme.

John Bruton

Question:

188 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Social Welfare when he will announce the conclusion of his consideration of a minimum payments system for family income supplement to ensure that all eligible applicants receive a worthwhile payment.

Minister for Social Welfare (Dr. Woods)

The family income supplement (FIS) is a weekly cash allowance paid to low income workers with families. Its purpose is to increase the incentive for such workers to remain in employment. A number of important changes have been made in recent years to improve take-up of this scheme.

The Government are providing an additional £1 million this year to finance further improvements in the scheme. I am considering what improvements should be made in the scheme, including the question of a minimum payment and I will be making an appropriate announcement shortly. Any changes will come into operation with the increases in social welfare payments, in July.