Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is not all about reform. There are many supports to help people transition from welfare but they are of little use if we cannot get that message out. We need a single government interface that shows how starting work or increasing hours can increase income. Building on the Department of Social Protection's benefit of work estimator, we need an individualised income calculator that is much clearer on eligibility for a range of entitlements, which often causes confusion. We must make sure that a work always pays strategy is not focused on encouraging people into low-paid employment but about giving them the skills for today's economy so they have the ability to earn more and progress in their careers.

The welfare website must also provide a user-friendly interface that outlines the supports and options for education and retraining. Work always pay must be about giving people real hope and the opportunity to access education and employment and reversing these unacceptable levels of poverty.

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