Gerry Reynolds
Ceist:333 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he intends to introduce family supplementary welfare for persons receiving a widows non-contributory pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.
Widow's non-contributory pension is payable to widows without children. Widows who have children are eligible for the lone parent's allowance.
Family income supplement is payable to persons in low earnings with families. Widows in receipt of the lone parent's allowance and who are employed can apply for the supplement. The extension of the supplement to women in receipt of widow's non-contributory pension or other persons without dependants would constitute a fundamental change in the scheme and there are no plans for such an extension at present.