Dáil debates

Wednesday, 14 September 2022

Saincheisteanna Tráthúla - Topical Issue Debate

Social Welfare Eligibility

10:25 pm

Photo of Pat BuckleyPat Buckley (Cork East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for the answer. There is hope and light in his response. The Department provides the social welfare inspector, so at least there is an avenue there. When the information comes back from the Department, it outlines the deadline for appeal but does not state that the person has opportunities if his or her circumstances are different. I welcome that. I got more than I expected because, I suppose, I am a realist.

This woman wanted to stand up because she suspected that there were other affected parents around the country. She told me that at her age, she should not be worrying about it but that a measly bloody €4.50 a week was an absolute insult. She asked how many more people this was happening to and said she wanted to stand up and fight, not only for her child but also for other families to set a precedent. At least I can ring that woman tomorrow and say we can possibly set up a meeting with the social welfare inspector.

These are individual cases and they can be very difficult. They are obviously also private. I do not feel good about bringing the details of somebody else's private life into a public chamber. As I was asked and given permission to do it and this is the last chance saloon for the person, it needs to be done. I thank the Minister of State for his response. I will follow it up with the lady and also with the Department of Social Protection.

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