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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 15 Dec 1998

Vol. 498 No. 4

Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

357 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when farmers on low income will benefit from the budget decision to revamp the small holders unemployment assistance scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27721/98]

The legislative basis for the new farm assist scheme, which was announced in the recent budget, will be provided for in the Social Welfare Bill, 1999 which will be brought before the House early in the next session.

The actual date of implementation of the new scheme remains to be settled but it is my intention that the scheme will come into operation as soon as is practicable. The range of operational issues relating to the introduction of the new scheme are currently being considered by my Department, in consultation with the farming organisations.
I should point out that, in the interim, it is open to farmers on low incomes to apply for the income support available under the unemployment assistance (smallholders assistance) scheme. Similarly, existing claimants may apply to have their means re-assessed at any time if they consider that their income has deteriorated since they were last subject to a means assessment.
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