Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Many will attest to the fact that those people felt useful. Therapeutically, it was good for them to leave their homes each day and to have pride in their work. It has been calculated that the saving to the State is €30 per week. While the sum is €30 of €40, looking after people who will not enter mainstream employment but who have an essential role to play at community level would be radical, taking the bull by the horns and doing something exceptional. It would also maintain society's morale. I hope the Minister will consider this matter.

I thank the Cathaoirleach for his indulgence. The provisions on child benefit, fuel allowance and other social welfare benefits constitute relatively good news overall, given the days in which we are living, but this is not to say that certain areas do not need attention. Nor is it to say that each Senator could not make a passionate case for people whom they would like to see getting more or for taking from someone else's pocket to help the vulnerable.