Vol. 555 No. 3
252 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she has written to the editor of a newspaper (details supplied) to express her concern regarding an article entitled, free cars for refugees, published on 16 September 2002. [18557/02]
The article to which the Deputy refers alleged that social welfare cheques have been issued to asylum seekers and refugees for the purpose of purchasing cars. As I have stated previously, inquiries made by my Department with the relevant health boards have revealed no evidence to support this allegation. I am satisfied that if such payments were being made, my Department's records would show this. In response to this article I issued a press release refuting the allegation. I have arranged for a copy to be made available to the Deputy.
