Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

I too have met with the various representative groups and found they had a valuable contribution to make to the debate. Many of them undertake independent research which is of particular value. I met some of the groups only last week and will meet a group of lone parents next week in Tallaght, including some very young parents, to ascertain their views.

The original documents that were circulated suggested that the lone parent allowance might cease, without any obligation of work or education, once the child reaches the age of seven. It is my view that seven years of age is too early. Instead, I am considering that payment be ceased when the child reaches the age of 13 years. At that age children are in secondary education and have a longer school day with more after-school activities. Therefore, parents are not in need of full-time child care.

I am working with the Minister of State with responsibility for children on child care issues and I have spoken to the Minister for Education and Science about education activation and training opportunities. I assure the Deputy that any changes will not be brought in suddenly. We must give people notice to enable them to avail of the education and training they will need. There is no question of simply cutting off payment. Hopefully, these people will be able to participate in work or full-time employment. We have noticed that there is a tendency among lone parents to sit on a certain number of hours because of their fear of losing the book.

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