Michael Ahern (Cork East, Fianna Fail)

Instead, they recommended that parents should receive the domiciliary care allowance on behalf of the child until he or she reaches 18 years of age. The decision of the Minister to change the original announcement was taken following representations from Deputies on all sides of the House and as a result of further recommendations from the National Federation of Voluntary Bodies. The Minister has suspended the proposals and stated that she will discuss with the relevant groups how their concerns can be addressed.

In conclusion, I welcome the Bill. It is a balanced measure in these difficult times. When the economy improves again, the difficult decisions that were taken will be reviewed.

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