Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

The Government has taken the view for some time that targeting resources through child benefit to families with children is more effective than child dependant allowances which, as the Deputy is aware, mitigate against those in employment. The Government is committed to continuing to invest heavily in welfare and, in particular, to ensuring that welfare payments are focused on those in greatest need, particularly families with children. With regard to the workers co-operative, the Deputy should put down a question to the relevant Minister.

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