Vol. 410 No. 6
84 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether the back-to-school allowance will be made available in September of this year to social employment scheme workers who have dependent children; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Earlier this month I announced details of an improved back-to-school clothing and footwear scheme for 1991. The scheme, which I introduced last year, is designed to assist recipients of social welfare and health board payments in meeting the cost of children's school uniforms and footwear.
Participants on social employment schemes who have dependent children of school-going age are eligible for this allowance if they meet the general conditions of the scheme.
The scheme, which is administered by the regional health boards commenced on 1 July to ensure that families can receive their payments well in advance of the start of the school year. Intending applicants should apply to the community welfare officer at their local health centre.
