asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he has any plans to reform the social welfare system with a view to simplifying the system and eliminating anomalies; and if he recognises the need for such reform.
Written Answers. - Reform of Social Welfare System.
521.
The Commission on Social Welfare established in August 1983 has as its mandate to review and report on all aspects of the social welfare system and related social services and to make recommendations for their development having regard to the needs of modern Irish society. It is to be expected that the formulation of proposals for the removal of anomalies and for simplifying the social welfare system will form an integral part of its work. The commission is to report within two years from the date of its establishment.
Pending the commission's recommendations, the provisions of the various schemes are kept under continuous review and improvements are introduced where desirable. In the past 18 months a wide range of measures have been introduced aimed at removing anomalies and improving the schemes both in relation to their levels of payment and in their application to particular categories of claimants.