John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. McKeon. In private session this morning, members were conscious that the Department and Minister indicated their desire to have all Stages of the Bill completed before the summer recess. Members understand the reasons for this and we will do everything in our power to facilitate this outcome. While the committee will not unnecessarily delay the Bill, at our next meeting after pre-legislative scrutiny, we will further examine some of the proposed pension changes and members may table Committee Stage amendments. We will, nevertheless, facilitate speedy passage of the Bill.

It is proposed to first discuss Part 2, amendments to the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act, and thereafter discuss Part 3, which proposes changes to pension provisions. We will then discuss other matters arising, if any. I remind members that contributions will be restricted to five minutes.

The following heads fall under Part 2: head 3 - the guardian's payment; head 4 - publication of names, addresses, fines and other penalties; head 5 - reduced rate of payment following conviction for fraud; head 6 - public services card; head 7 - birth, marriage and death certificates; head 8 - decisions made by automated information technology systems; head 9 - recovery of certain benefits and assistance; and head 10 - earnings disregard for disability allowance, blind pension and supplementary welfare allowance.