Vol. 508 No. 1
691 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the proposals, if any, he has to extend eligibility for child benefit until the child has finished third level education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17981/99]
Child benefit is a universal payment which is payable in respect of all children up to the age of 16 years and continues to be paid in respect of children up to age 19 who are in full-time education, or who have a physical or mental disability.
The policy direction over the past number of years has been to concentrate resources on improving child benefit for all families. Since I came into office I have increased the lower rate of child benefit from £30 to £34.50 per month, and the higher rate from £39 to £46 per month. The higher increase in the higher rate which is paid in respect of the third and subsequent children, recognises that research has shown that larger families face greatest risk of poverty.
Any proposals to extend entitlement to all children in full-time education would be costly and would have to be considered in the light of available resources and overall budgetary priorities.
