Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

I fundamentally disagree with the Deputy's opening remarks. No Governments in the history of the State have done more for children than those led by the Taoiseach over the past ten years. The figures prove that. Many of the bodies representing children also subscribe to that view. For example, child benefit payments in 2000 were €43.81 for each of the first two children and €58.41 for the third and subsequent children while the equivalent payments today are €166 and €203, which represent increases of 280% and 248% respectively. That is one area of targeted income we put forward in a multiplicity of an effort to make sure children remain in good stead and the Government is seen to support parents and children, particularly those who are less well off in society.

While Dr. Sweeney published a report on a second tier child payment, there is fundamental disagreement within the NESC on this approach. There are many different views. For instance, the family income supplement is targeted at children and people working in low paid jobs to encourage people back to work while, at the same time, giving them a direct payment to support their children. It is a better and more direct way of assisting families and directly assisting children. While I have an open mind on the issue, the reality is representative groups fundamentally disagree on this approach. It is my intention to continue to use resources in a very targeted way to assist children in need.

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