Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The review being conducted by the Department will specifically examine the reduced payment rates and the impacts thereof. The report being produced by NUI Maynooth will examine the effectiveness of the reduced payments in terms of an upturn or uptake in encouraging young job seekers to avail of training, education and improving their skills. I will thus be aware of the impact of the reduction through the Department's review and of the impact in terms of the effectiveness of improving people's educational status through the NUI report. When we marry the two, we will be able to see if things need to be tweaked or if changes are needed. It will inform me better and enable me to make proper decisions if I am still Minister next year.