John Halligan (Waterford, Independent)

I remind the Minister that the Irish Association of Suicidology has indicated, based on international research, that for every one percentage point increase in unemployment, there is a 0.78% increase in the rate of suicide. Let us be clear that as the economic situation worsens, human lives are at stake. I urge the Minister to bear in mind the arguments put forward by those organisations working at the coalface to combat poverty in this country, as she was wont to do when in opposition. She has indicated that she will meet representatives of Social Justice Ireland, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and the money advice and budgeting service, among others. Deputies, including those in the Minister's party, in constituencies with high unemployment, such as Waterford city in my constituency, are aware of how difficult things are for people. There is no point in asking the Minister to increase social welfare rates, as should be done, because I know she will not do it. I ask, however, that she at least not reduce them.

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