Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)

-----because the people want change and want it now. They seek change and if the Government tampers in any way with child benefit next week, I assure the Minister of State that the women of Ireland will unite. They will be at the gates of Leinster House, the Minister of State's clinic and the clinics of everyone in Fianna Fáil by the following week. I guarantee the Minister of State that such a decision would be reversed before Christmas Eve.

I acknowledge the Government has increased child benefit in recent years. However, it should not undo all the good work that has been done in recent years. This is a single payment that should be protected because it is paid to women. Women look after the family and their children and this payment should not be tampered with. The present payments should be left to every woman in the State. People have put that money aside and have plans for it in the future. I hope it is left to them.

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