Bríd Smith (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance) | Oireachtas source

The Minister has not referred to the fact that the average is disregarded for homemakers after 1994, but it is not for homemakers prior to 1994. The amendment asks precisely that question. The idea is that the average would apply to everyone, not only homemakers after 1994. I do not understand why previous Governments brought this measure in after 1994. It seems there is a disregard for the average after 1994 but not for the years beforehand. Women my age and older women who are coming up to retirement are going to be penalised heavily for something that is utterly wrong. I am not suggesting that we should take it from Paul to pay Peter. I am saying active discrimination is taking place here and that is clear.