Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

The Social Welfare and Pensions Bill builds further on the development of social inclusion measures adopted by this Government over recent years. It safeguards the living standards of those who rely on social welfare income and other supports and prioritises the allocation of resources in favour of those most in need.

My priority in this Bill is to make significant progress in delivering on the social welfare commitments contained in the programme for Government, Sustaining Progress and the national action plan against poverty and social exclusion.

Resources will be targeted on helping those most in need in order, not alone to raise their standard of living, but to ensure that everyone is a valued citizen who can make his or her own contribution to society regardless of his or her particular circumstances.

I thank the House for its time, commend the Bill to Senators and look forward to listening to a very constructive debate. Molaim an Bille seo don Teach.