Sheila Terry (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his reply and the way in which he is considering this issue with reform in mind, with which I agree. The figure for fathers contributing to the maintenance of their children is very low. It is not good enough that of the number of cases examined, only 15% of fathers are contributing. I would like to see an improvement in that figure and for fathers to become more involved with their children. This issue is not only about money. While the Department of Social and Family Affairs must ensure the funds and benefits are well spent and that those who should pay are doing so, we also need to consider the wider social issues. In the context of the debate on the new report on lone parents we might be able to touch on this relevant issue.

When we talk about lone parents we only tend to think of mothers. While we know there are lone parents who are fathers and who are rearing children, we must take account of the lone parent who is not living with the child and the responsibilities placed on that individual. We must recognise these social and financial responsibilities and tackle the social aspect of all benefits because, as I argued earlier, we must get away from the hand-out mentality. We must bring about change and create a better society. I look forward to the debate on the proposal for lone parents.