Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

The scheme will be introduced in August and will be paid for the full period. It would not be a fair answer to the question to simply discuss the early childhood supplement without taking account of developments in child benefit. Members can see the manner in which the figures are rising. I can exclude it, if the Deputy wishes. As the child benefit figures rise and there are more claims from non-residents, the issues will ultimately be linked unless we change the regulations. However, I will accede to Deputy Kenny's request.

I refer to the early childhood supplement only. Based on all estimates and trends, on claims awaiting decision as well as ongoing claims, it is estimated there may be approximately 12,000 non-resident children under the age of six with an entitlement this year. The cost of such payments will be €9.5 million. However, the Department of Social and Family Affairs estimates that only approximately 10% of the claims will be dealt with this year. The actual expenditure in 2006 is unlikely to exceed €1.5 million.

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