Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 9 Nov 1993

Vol. 435 No. 6

Ceisteanna — Questions Written Answers. - Social Welfare Benefits.

Ivor Callely

Ceist:

22 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will give details of the social welfare child benefits available in Ireland in comparison to other EC members states; the proposals, if any, he has to improve existing benefits; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Social Welfare (Dr. Woods)

Child Benefit is payable in respect of all children normally resident in the State, up to the age of sixteen or up to eighteen years of age if the child is in full time education or physically or mentally handicapped.

In the last budget the rate of child benefit was increased from £15.80 to £20 in respect of each of the first three children and to £23 in respect of the fourth and subsequent children.

While the rate of child benefit paid in Ireland is relatively low in an EC context, it should be noted that five member states operate a means/income test in relation to child benefit payments, whereas other countries, including Ireland, make child benefit payments regardless of income or insurance contributions.

Furthermore, simple comparison of the level of basic child benefit payments in different countries does not give a comprehensive picture of income support for children. Ireland is one of only five EC member states which pays increased social welfare payments in respect of children in relation, for example, to unemployment payments. Families on low incomes in Ireland are further supported through the Family Income Supplement and by the child related tax exemption limits.

The total amount of social welfare expenditure directed specifically towards children is estimated to be over £500 million annually. Child benefit accounts for nearly half of this amount.

The Government, recognises the important contribution of Child Benefit as an income support mechanism and, as indicated in the Programme for a Partnership Government, it is intended to further increase child benefit over time, following integration of the tax and social welfare systems.