Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 13 Mar 1991

Vol. 406 No. 4

Written Answers. - Social Welfare Fraud.

Tony Gregory

Question:

106 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Social Welfare if, arising from his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 61 of 6 March 1991, he will establish with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul whether they have evidence that notices posted to the homes of persons on the pre-retirement allowances were in some instances photocopies and used fraudulently with specific reference to a case (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Social Welfare (Dr. Woods)

Certain people in receipt of the pre-retirement allowance were issued with forms to bring to local St. Vincent de Paul centres to receive a quantity of free beef under the terms of the free food scheme. None of the forms which issued were photocopies. There is no evidence from the St. Vincent de Paul of fraudulent applications based on these forms. My Department are aware of the need for security on this scheme and the matter is being kept under review.