Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

My understanding is that all of the parties to the interdepartmental group will make recommendations which could lead to changes in legislation. Surely it would be an idea to put it on the table. Could we suggest when the Department goes back to the next meeting that it is something that could be considered? The group may decide not to do it but it would only be fair that it would consider it, if possible.

On rent flexibility, can the local welfare office find in advance of someone taking up a lease that it would allow an increase on the rent supplement given the circumstances? Take for example someone who is moving out of direct provision and finds a suitable house in Galway, where there is an issue with rent limits. The rent for the house identified by the person is above the rent limit. Can he or she go to the Department of Social Protection, explain the rent supplement limit is €750 but the house will cost €950 and have the increase approved in advance of signing a lease? Alternatively, is it that only a person who has a lease and is in a house can ask for the increased payment?