Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

We will also introduce a home-makers pension for pensioners' spouses currently in receipt of the qualified adult allowance, set at the level of a full non-contributory pension. People in receipt of old-age pensions are appreciative of the major improvement in the rates of payment in recent years. That is a fact. Anyone who is not afraid to walk the streets and meet the people, knows that. We certainly are not afraid to do so.

On assuming office in 1997, Fianna Fáil made a decision to improve the pensioners' lot. We are proud to say we have done that and will continue to do so. It is part of the Minister's priorities.