Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will ask my last question and then pass over to the Chairman or anyone else who wishes to ask questions.

I concur on the issue of income adequacy. I would have preferred to have seen the word "adequacy" included in the terms and conditions of the Low Pay Commission. I regret that it was not. It is the fundamental test of pay.

On the working family payment, under the early childhood care and education, ECCE, scheme, the figure is 15 hours. Does Dr. Keilthy agree with me that those who are entitled to 15 hours of free early years education are required to be working 19 hours a week in order to qualify for the working family payment? Does she have any comment to make on the disjoint? It affects those who may be working 15 or 16 hours a week and who may need to work for 19 to qualify for the working family payment.