Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)

There is a need for some joined-up thinking on the Minister's part. Arising from the budget and the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, welfare recipients in private rented accommodation on rent supplement are getting an increase of a mere €1.50 per week on their welfare as a result of the clawback in rent supplement. There is no basis on which the Minister can defend that kind of meagre increase. I ask the Minister to reconsider this action, which will drive more people into severe poverty. Does the Minister want to preside over such a situation? The clawback on rent supplement is indefensible and I ask the Minister to reconsider her actions.

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