Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The eligibility criteria, including the income thresholds, are reviewed annually, in conjunction with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. We are willing to look at the thresholds and consider what change is required. The Deputy's specific proposal relates to flexibility at the margins. Many of our systems have cut-off points which apply across various Departments and we can always come up with cases that are just outside or inside these limits. I do not propose to change the position, but it is reviewed regularly. I would certainly be willing to attend the Joint Committee on Education and Social Protection which would be a good forum in which to discuss these issues.

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