Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

If we are going to compare statistics, analysis by the ESRI shows that, combined with the increase in the core social welfare payment rates, these lump sums effectively compensated lower income households for price increases and, in fact, were more effective than an index-linked increase in core rates. I reiterate that what I want to see is money in people's pockets when they need it to pay the bills and put food on the table.

Deputy Murphy mentioned food banks. People who cannot put food on the table should talk to their community welfare officer. That is what the additional needs payment is there for. It is the State's safety net and it is available to anybody who needs it. I encourage people to use it. If someone does not want to go to a community welfare officer, the service can be contacted online as well.

The money needed to fund these measures was available due to sound economic management by this Government, which has contributed to historically low levels of unemployment. The Government has already clearly stated that it is keeping the cost of living under review. It has acted as necessary time and again. I will be listening to all the stakeholders on 19 July and, as with every other year, I will work with my Government colleagues to put together a package to support people on social welfare payments that targets those most in need.

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