David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

I am referring to the role of women in society and asking whether the social welfare system gives adequate recognition and support to them. These questions are based on an article by the National Women's Council. I am told that 95% of all qualified adults are women. Does the Minister agree that the social welfare system reinforces women's dependence on men? In its programme for Government, did this Administration not promise to raise the qualified adult allowance to the same level as a non-contributory pension? As it is now three years on, will this happen and if so, when? What plans, if any, does the Minister have to make changes to allow relatives, mainly women, assisting in family businesses to get insurance under the PRSI system?

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