Ms Helen Faughnan:

I wish to clarify a number of issues because there seems to be a lot of misunderstanding about the scheme. The scheme is extremely successful and the feedback we have received over the years has been positive. Deputy Daly asked about a review and after the various events, we would review what has happened. The feedback from the households and clients we have been dealing with has been positive. I wish to reassure members that the €70,000 figure is not a cap. People need to make a 1% contribution for each €1,000 they earn over the €70,000. So, if someone is earning €80,000, we will pay 90% of whatever their needs are. Last year, for example, we made payments ranging from €500 up to €12,000. In one particular case, we paid out €50,000 to a couple with two children. The payments depend on the actual needs of households.