Pat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Minister has told us what the regulations are at the moment but her predecessor and the Taoiseach gave a commitment in this House, to me and Deputy Willie O'Dea, that a report would be prepared within three months. That was 12 months ago. It is very hard to explain this to those on seasonal or part-time work who make a very important contribution to farming, fishing and tourism, and something has to be done about it.

The Minister met with a delegation of seasonal and part-time workers during the IFA briefings here in Dublin some months ago so she is familiar with the case. These people play an essential part in the various sectors to which I referred. I am aware of the need to build up contributions for 13 weeks after a claim but these things are not practical for those people and the whole purpose of the report is to allow the Minister to consider introducing new regulations that would be practical.

The subsidiary income threshold of €12.70 per day, or €63 per week, is totally unfair and this must be dealt with. I know the Minister is committed to looking at this but there can be no further procrastination. Can she give us a definite date when she will have the report and will make recommendations?

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