asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether the introduction of a higher requirement of contributions for unemployment and disability benefit has led to a reduction in the number of claims; and if so, the extent of such reduction, in terms of money; the number of people affected; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefit.
57.
The change in the conditions for receipt of disability benefit and unemployment benefit included in last year's budget came into effect from April 1987. Those changes were designed to ensure that those establishing entitlement to these payments have had a reasonable history of attachment to the workforce. It was estimated that some 6,000 people would be affected in 1987 by these changes yielding a saving of £8.5 million.