Paul Lawless (Mayo, Aontú)

I am sure the Minister will acknowledge that lone parents are vulnerable and have a difficult time. According to the ESRI, there is a huge risk of economic vulnerability. We should do everything we can. I will certainly work with him on any of those families who may be at risk and who fall in that gap in terms of the payment. I welcome what the Minister said to Deputy O'Reilly on child maintenance and the means test. The programme for Government commits to supporting lone parents and I look forward to working with the Minister to ensure that supports continue. I hope we can work with the Minister to ensure that no family will be taken off the lone parents support at the end of the year.

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