Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome this initiative and many of the changes planned in the Bill, particularly section 3 in respect of An Post. There is considerable concern about proposed changes to the contract with An Post. It is important for the viability of the rural post office network that it continues to have a role in the payment of social welfare. It would also be a control measure because the client must go in and collect the payment.

Some €19.63 billion will be spent on social welfare in 2014 and €18.5 million on capital expenditure. It is the largest spending category; almost €2 out of every €5 of Government spending goes to social welfare. It is important to have correct controls and safeguards in place in respect of the spending of this money to ensure best value for taxpayers.

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It goes without saying that social welfare is an important safety net and provides support for a range of citizens, including jobseekers' supports and illness and disability supports. It is a safety net that most individuals and certainly most families at some stage in their life will rely upon. Such investment needs to be recognised. Ireland has one of the most substantial social welfare systems in the world and ensuring there is finance to underpin it is hugely important.

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