Thomas Pringle (Donegal South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

This issue should not be considered solely on the basis of an actuarial review It is cold comfort to those in their mid-30s, who had started a business and who perhaps provided employment in the past, to think they will benefit greatly when they reach pensionable age having paid their contributions as self-employed people. In 2011, 2,300 people started businesses in Ireland. These people are classified as being self-employed and are those whom it is hoped will employ others in the future. Consequently, such a measure should be considered as a stimulus package. Members should take the perspective that people who are self-employed are probably less likely to become unemployed or to be unemployed for long periods but that they need social protection and social benefits. Consequently, the overall benefits of having a system in which self-employed people can enjoy some protection, in the form of a social welfare benefit during short periods of unemployment, far outweigh any of the potential costs. Serious consideration should be given to this possibility. Moreover, initially there would be substantial benefits to the Social Insurance Fund because the additional contributions would help to partially close the existing deficit. Consequently, I ask that serious consideration be given to this proposal.

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