Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

These consultations are ongoing.

Supporting those in Need

When it comes to supporting those in need one of the measures of a true republic is the strength of its support for those on low incomes. Throughout its term in office, the Government has ensured that the less well-off have shared in Ireland's growing prosperity and 2007 will see further, significant progress. Today, I am pleased to announce the biggest package of support for those on low incomes in the history of the State.

Helping those on low incomes

The Government does not see economic growth as an end in itself. Rather, sustainable economic growth is the only way to generate the resources required to meet society's needs. The Government is determined to ensure the fruits of that growth are used to assist those who need support. Already, of course, enormous efforts have been made by the Government in this regard and we are fully intent on continuing the progress made. I am therefore providing for a social welfare package which will cost over €1.4 billion in a full year. This will leave total social welfare expenditure in 2007 at €15.3 billion——

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