Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Bill referred to by Deputy Ó Caoláin is to give effect to the proposals arising from the Government's discussion paper, Proposals for Supporting Lone Parents, which will provide for the introduction of a new means-tested payment for lone parents and other families on low incomes and will replace the one-parent family payment. That is not due for publication until next year. The Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Brendan Smith, continues to discharge his responsibilities in respect of the child care issue.

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