Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

This is an important amendment because there has been so much discussion about income limits. In addition, there has been much disagreement about their impact and the number of people who will be affected. I feel it is important to try to bring some information back not just to the Department of Finance but also to the Houses of the Oireachtas. The changes in the Bill will impact on the public through front-line services. In the interests of transparency and information, it is important to report such information to the Oireachtas.