Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 13 Oct 1993

Vol. 434 No. 5

Written Answers. - Social Welfare Code.

Michael McDowell

Ceist:

29 Mr. M. McDowell asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will give the changes, if any, to the social welfare code that are envisaged, following on a review, initiated in his Department, to examine the implications of the introduction of divorce next year.

Desmond J. O'Malley

Ceist:

36 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will give the changes, if any, to the social welfare code that are envisaged, following on a review, initiated in his Department, to examine the implications of the introduction of divorce next year.

Mary Harney

Ceist:

42 Miss Harney asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will give the changes, if any, to the social welfare code that are envisaged, following on a review, initiated in his Department, to examine the implications of the introduction of divorce next year.

Minister for Social Welfare (Dr. Woods)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 29, 36 and 42 together.

The introduction of divorce would have implications for many of the schemes administered by my Department. This includes not only the schemes which have been introduced specifically to cater for situations of family breakdown but pensions and allowances generally. It would also have implications for occupational pension schemes, policy in relation to which also comes within my responsibility. The extent of these implications will depend on the terms under which divorce is provided for.

The options for changes in social welfare schemes arising from divorce are being considered at present. Detailed proposals will be submitted to the Government in time to enable full consideration in advance of any constitutional amendment.