Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

I have outlined the significant improvements that have been made not only to rates of pay but also in terms of free travel and household benefits for carers. They also have generous income disregards.

Every single group would like my commitment to leave them alone in the budget but the next group will then ask for the same treatment. I am aware people are anxious and want reassurance but it is genuinely not possible at present to promise our full protection to any group affected by the social welfare system.

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