Joe Walsh
Question:17 Mr. J. Walsh asked the Minister for Social Welfare the nature of proposals he has under consideration to remove poverty traps for low and middle-income workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10284/96]
Vol. 465 No. 7
17 Mr. J. Walsh asked the Minister for Social Welfare the nature of proposals he has under consideration to remove poverty traps for low and middle-income workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10284/96]
An expert working group is examining the integration of the tax and social welfare systems, with a view to eliminating as far as possible the poverty traps and work disincentives which arise in these systems and in related areas, such as the medical card. I expect to receive their report within the next few weeks. When I receive the report, we will be looking at how best to implement the group's recommendations, in consultation with the other Departments concerned.
18 Mr. Briscoe asked the Minister for Social Welfare the current state of discussions regarding the EU Poverty IV Programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10364/96]
I refer the Deputy to the answer the Minister gave to Question No. 8 on 3 April 1996. The situation has not changed.