Ulick Burke (Galway East, Fine Gael)

I am pleased to have an opportunity to support the Labour Party motion before the House. When one considers the senselessness and severity of what the Minister has done in the case of the Christmas bonus it suggests that the Government does not realise the implication of the measure.

The Minister, Deputy Hanafin, stated on 27 October 2008:

Even with the challenging budgetary situation, the payment of this additional money to social welfare customers is a clear sign that helping those most in need of support remains the key priority for the Government. We all recognise that there are significant pressures for families and individuals around Christmas time, and this funding will go some way towards meeting their needs.

Why is that no longer a priority?

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