Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is a distraction from the mean and petty cuts to health and social supports. In this regard, one should bear in mind what has happened in the budget in the areas of health and social policy, and the lack of any proofing of the budget's measures affecting single or separated parents, for example. The tax credit allowance was taken, which can impose a hit on families in the order of €2,500 to €3,000. This is a very severe hit on top of other welfare cuts.

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