Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

I will certainly consult the groups that have represented the elderly over the years. The issue will arise as to whether certain individuals should be given a lump sum of €300 or €400 in September, and another after Christmas. It would be up to the groups to advise on whether this is best for some particularly vulnerable individuals. We must weigh up the pros and cons.

One matter that would have to be considered is administration. At present, the system is very easy to administer because one just attaches the payment to the book. We would not want an undue administrative cost associated with a scheme from which only a small number would benefit. That is why I need time to consider the matter properly over the coming months.

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