Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 24 Nov 1993

Vol. 436 No. 2

Written Answers. - Integration of Tax and Social Welfare Systems.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

63 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Social Welfare if the expert working group to look at the closer integration of the tax and social welfare systems, which he told Dáil Éireann on 16 June 1993, would be established, has now been set up; its membership and terms of reference; if it is still intended to introduce an interim report before the end of this year; the changes, if any, he intends to introduce in this area in the context of the next budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Social Welfare (Dr. Woods)

An expert working group on the integration of the tax and social welfare systems was established in July last. The terms of reference of the group are:

To identify the problems arising from the interaction of the tax and social welfare systems and to identify the steps necessary to achieve greater co-ordination/integration of the two systems, with particular attention to the impact on people's incomes and to the tax code, social welfare system, budgetary and administrative implications.

The working group is made up of experts with practical professional and academic backgrounds in the areas of tax and social welfare. The membership of the group is set out in a tabular statement which I will make available to Deputies.

At the inaugural meeting of the group, I asked them to present an interim report to me in time to influence next year's budget. I expect to receive that report shortly. Once I have received the report I will consider what proposals should be put forward in this area in the context of the budget.