Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

Deputy Crow is correct in stating that we must get this right and I have no monopoly on wisdom in this area. Senior officials in my Department, researchers and various bodies involved have been undertaking this study for more than three years. I have picked up the ball and run with it in an effort to get it across the line. I seek to distil the wisdom around me. There is no financial agenda because I have received no letters from the Department of Finance instructing me to reduce the moneys spent on lone parents. This initiative attempts to create better social policy. No one seeks to compel people to work but if it was a member of our family we would prefer that he or she would speak to agencies about improving education, training and job opportunities.

The reforms envisaged allow for a considerable period before any pressure is applied. It is done substantially on a voluntary basis although pressure must be applied at some point. However, this will not happen before many years' notice has been given. This initiative is designed to assist people to enter employment or education and deal with the cohabitation rules. In parallel, an implementation plan will address child care, flexible working hours and access to education and training.

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