asked the Minister for Social Welfare the regulation, practice and information requirement which has been modified by his Department as a result of the decision of the Government last May that each Minister review all such regulations, practices and information requirements which have a cost impact on business and industry.
Written Answers. - Departmental Requirements Imposed on Business.
106.
Arising from the Government's decision to review the legislative and administrative burden on business generally, a review was initiated of the administrative and legislative requirements of this Department in so far as business and industry are concerned. A report on the matter was furnished to the Minister for Industry and Commerce for assessment by the industrial cost monitoring group.
The main contact between the Department and business and industry relates to the collection of pay-related social insurance in respect of employees and self-employed, enforcement of the social welfare code by both employers and employees, and requests for information in relation to new and ongoing claims to benefit including details regarding insurability of employment.
The current requirements are seen as vital to the effective and secure administration of the social welfare system. Ongoing computerisation in the Department is facilitating better cross-scheme checking and is minimising the likelihood of unnecessary inquiries to employers. All forms and leaflets issued by the Department are currently being redesigned and simplified.
A further measure which is helping to streamline present arrangements is the setting up on a nationwide basis of a Joint Investigation Unit involving officers of this Department and the Revenue Commissioners to detect fraudulent claims and non-payment of PRSI contributions. The Unit will minimise the possibility of employers being approached by both Departments at different times on matters which are of common interest.