The most striking aspects of today's announcements are those on social welfare. This is by far the paltriest allocation in recent years to the least well off in our society. The basic flat rate increase of €6 per week for most social welfare beneficiaries is an absolute disgrace. I wager that it will not cover the rate of inflation or keep up with the rise in wages next year. Those depending on flat rate social welfare benefits will undoubtedly be worse off because of today's decisions.