Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister mentioned the social welfare and social transfer contribution to local economies. Any cut or change in the amounts given, taking into account the figures given here, of €484 million less in terms of social welfare payments or supports and €190 million the previous year, makes a combined sum of over €670 million which is no longer in the local economy. While it has always been recognised that the social transfer supports attempt to eradicate poverty and contribute to the local economy, removing that much from the local economy has a detrimental effect which can also add to the numbers dependent on social welfare or State supports. That is something to be borne in mind, especially given that the indications, based on these figures, are of a further cut of €300 million or €400 million next year, depending on the number of people going into employment. There are other factors but I think €440 million is the figure. It could be higher or lower. We have seen estimates vary.

The Minister said that we do not highlight the increase in the pension. An extra €190 million is contributed. That may be a case of not being able to manage our own figures. The census could give a closer indication of how many people should be on that payment alone. It is not an exact science but €190 million is a large number to be out by every year. Each year the revised estimate has to come up with another €190 million because we have underestimated the number of people dependent on non-contributory pensions. That shows the urgency and importance of getting our figures right. Is €440 million the figure?