Richard Bruton
Ceist:129 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Taoiseach the Government's proposed action on foot of the recent report on the feasibility of a basic income scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16696/01]
Written Answers. - Basic Income Scheme.
The report of the steering group on basic income was made available to the social partners on 2 March last and placed in the Oireachtas Library at the same time.
The steering group's task was to undertake an appraisal of the concept and full implications of introducing a basic income payment to all citizens. It was not its role to reach a conclusion or make recommendations about basic income.
The group's view was that the studies represent a significant move forward in our understanding of the complex issues involved. These need to be teased out in detail and the intention is to publish a Green Paper on basic income later this year.
The report of the steering group has been made available to the social partners and their views will be taken fully into account.
The complexity and range of issues to be considered in taking forward the proposal for a basic income mean that a number of Departments will be involved in the preparation of the Green Paper. At the moment, my Department is in contact with the relevant Departments with a view to agreeing arrangements for the preparation of a Green Paper.