Seanad debates
Tuesday, 25 March 2003
Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2003: Second Stage (Resumed).
I regret other Members are not present to hear my comments. There has been much criticism in respect of child benefit increases. When appointed, I said there would be difficulties. It will cost more than €400 million to deliver on the next tranche of the package. My full allocation this year was €530 million. Should I neglect the rest of those for whom I must care? The answer is, "No". I had to prioritise. Following discussions, I decided we would commit ourselves to delivering on the programme but at a slower pace. When we achieve our target, we will have given the greatest increases in child benefit which will address two issues – child poverty and child care. The provision of child care is an ongoing issue and we have not yet been able to come up with the right formula. The universality of child benefit has in many ways addressed issues for the working mother and the mother who remains at home. It is focused on addressing child poverty. There is agreement on all sides of the House that this is the right way forward. It is our intention to deliver what we promised.
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