Mary Mitchell O'Connor (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The social welfare system is an essential service providing both a safety net and a springboard to help people at their most vulnerable. Since the economic crisis more and more people have had to avail of this service. By the close of this year, the Government will have spent €20.3 billion on social welfare. This accounts for nearly 40% of total Government expenditure. Thus, we can ill afford inefficiencies and inequalities in the system.

I therefore welcome the provisions of section 11 which seeks to further combat social welfare payment fraud. Social welfare fraud demands serious attention. The majority of the people availing of social welfare have been victims of the circumstances of our economy and would prefer to be engaged in the workforce. However, in some cases there are people who are less willing to engage and are even taking advantage of the system through fraudulent actions. This provision also takes measures to assure taxpayers, who are funding this system, that this service is fair and providing to those most in need.

I also welcome the new arrangements for older jobseekers. It is only fair that people aged 62 and over, who have greatly contributed to society and are equipped with great life experience, would not be penalised for not engaging in training or other supports required of younger jobseekers.

I am a strong advocate of healthy eating and tackling childhood obesity. I welcome the provision of funding for 100 new school breakfast clubs. This is clear evidence that the Government is investing in the health and educational performance of future generations.

I recognise that tough decisions have had to be made in budget 2014, cuts with which many are not satisfied, and I sympathise. However, the Bill attempts to strike a balance between reaching the savings necessary while not negatively impacting on the social welfare and pension recipient.

This Bill plays an active role in encouraging people to explore various education, training and job opportunities, particularly young people. As a former principal, I know parents want to see their children sufficiently educated and equipped as best as possible with the relevant work skills.

The Bill reduces an early reliance on jobseeker's welfare and instead encourages job and education initiatives. I therefore welcome the reduction of the JobsPlus eligibility threshold in terms of the duration of unemployment from 12 to six months. That will lead to 1,500 additional recruits under the scheme in 2014. The Department of Education and Skills has also committed to ring-fencing a minimum of 2,000 additional training places for those under 25. Those training places will help facilitate young people's transition onto the work ladder.

I recommend the Minister increases communication with the public on the outcomes of this Bill. I have been contacted by a number of constituents who are confused or unsure about the way the different provisions in the Bill will affect them and their families. Those fears can be alleviated by better and clearer communication. I am hopeful the Bill will ensure a more effective and efficient social welfare service that can protect those most in need.

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