Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I referred earlier to the people earning €500,000 per annum at a time when we are taking €2 or €3 from senior citizens. Has the Taoiseach been visited at his clinic and office by senior citizens expressing concern about these cuts? I have.

Is the Taoiseach aware that cuts to the telephone, electricity, gas and smokeless fuel allowances will cost the average pensioner €265.20 per annum? That is a lot of money to many senior citizens. I ask that the Taoiseach seek in preparation of the budget to maintain social welfare payments to older people at current levels. This could be a matter of life and death for many older people. Approximately 2,000 senior citizens are directly affected by these cuts. This figure was provided by the voluntary sector who deal with senior citizens on the front line. I ask that the Government continue to assist these 2,000 senior citizens who will be at risk.

Will the Taoiseach stand up for older people and reverse these cuts now?

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