Some of the achievements of the past few years reveal startling statistics. If the economic climate allowed this to continue the improvements would be dramatic. For example, in the area of pensions a couple, both over 66 years of age, get 54% more than five years ago. That is staggering. A special widowed parent grant to help bereaved parents with financial costs has been enhanced to €2,500. The personal rate of payment for most recipients of social welfare has increased by at least 37%, while the corresponding rate for a couple has increased by over 44%.