Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

One of the reasons the target was not met was that the number on the live register did not reach the anticipated level. It is important that we stop people receiving payment before fraud occurs. This issue is being given careful attention. The control target for next year is €533 million. The Department hopes and expects to achieve this target through the range of measures it has implemented and new initiatives.

Money was provided in the budget for the roll-out of a PPS card, which will commence this year. This measure will help eliminate fraud as the new card will feature a photograph. While it will not be an identity card, it will be helpful.

I do not wish to discuss individual cases but it is extraordinary that the person to whom the Deputy referred was able to continue with the fraud for so long. An individual can, however, collect a pension for an older person if he or she is the designated agent.

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