Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail)

If we do not recognise the decline in prices and taxation receipts, the position will become so serious that making many payments will not be possible next year. We must admit this is the case and recognise that many of the subsidiary and ancillary benefits for social welfare recipients, for instance, free travel and household benefits, are still available. These benefits provide significant additional help to people on social welfare, particularly older people.

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