Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Minister mentioned that approximately 11,300 people are receiving this supplementary income. That represents an increase of 46% on the 2008 figure and shows how important this is. That is why I asked for a commitment that no further or additional changes are planned in this area. I would also like to ask about the welfare officers who visit recipients of farm assist payments. Can the Minister confirm on the record how many visits have taken place? Can she give information on the extent to which the number of visits by welfare officers to those who receive farm assist has increased? If the Minister does not have that information now, I will accept it at a later date.

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