Vol. 554 No. 5
1710 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs her proposals to assist senior citizens with the cost of cable television services which are now higher than the cost of a television licence; if she has had discussions with these companies about providing a discount to senior citizens; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16403/02]
The free schemes, including the free television licence, the electricity/gas allowance and the telephone allowance, are generally available to people living in the State, aged 66 years or over, who are in receipt of a social welfare type payment or who fulfil a means test. They are also available to carers and people with disabilities under the age of 66 who are in receipt of certain welfare type payments. From May 2001, the free schemes were extended to all persons aged 70 years and over regardless of income and household composition.
A recent review of the free schemes suggested that the schemes, as currently constituted, provide a basic package of necessary household benefits for the targeted group. It also suggests that no further goods and services should be covered by the schemes.
Many private companies extend concessions to pensioners in order to increase their business usage as part of their social aims. It is also in recognition of the value they have received from their customers over the years. Following previous requests for concessions on the cost of cable television my officials wrote to the cable company concerned and drew its attention to requests for concessions.
