Brian O'Shea
Ceist:43 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will extend entitlement under the free beef scheme to those participating in social employment schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Free Beef Scheme.
The financial allocation to cover the cost of the free beef scheme in each member state is decided upon by the EC. The quantity of beef is, therefore, determined by this allocation. As the quantity of beef available is limited it is necessary, in consultation with the Department of Social Welfare, to identify those beneficiaries who are considered to be in the greatest need.
The scheme for 1990 was, therefore, restricted to recipients of long term unemployment assistance, recipients of pre-retirement allowance, recipients of long term supplementary welfare allowance and trainees who were in receipt of long term unemployment assistance immediately prior to commencing their FÁS courses.
The distribution to the people who fall into those categories excludes social welfare recipients in other categories. This is inevitable given the limited quantities allowed under the Community regulations at present, but I am seeking to have these quantities increased for the future.