Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 March 2007
145 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance when, in view of the fact that low income families which have no savings can fall into debt particularly easily, he will introduce a savings scheme for low income households, on a pilot basis for two years, in the form suggested by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the money advice and budgeting service and the Combat Poverty Agency. [10180/07]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe proposal is to develop a pilot savings scheme for low-income households, similar to the SSIA scheme which is now in its final months. While the proposal has a number of socially progressive features, I am not convinced that a further SSIA type scheme is the appropriate way forward. Raising the income levels of those affected by more jobs, higher wages or better social welfare support may be more productive. That is what this Government's policies are achieving.
