Vol. 528 No. 2
196 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when the means test was first used in deciding on payments from his Department; the basis upon which means-tests are conducted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30083/00]
Income maintenance payments available under the social welfare code consist of a range of social insurance benefits which are paid on the basis of PRSI contributions and a further range of social assistance payments which are payable subject to a means test to people who are not qualified for insurance-based payments.
Means-testing has been a feature of the social welfare system since the introduction of the first social welfare payment – the old age non-contributory pension – in 1908. The purpose of the means tests is to ensure that for those who do not have social insurance cover or who have insufficient contributions to qualify for benefit, the resources available are targeted at those most in need.
The legislative basis for means tests currently operated by my Department is contained in the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act, 1993, and subsequent amending Acts and in regulations made under those Acts.
