Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

This section provides for the introduction of the cut in jobseeker's allowance and to bring the supplementary welfare allowance in line with the cutbacks in that area. We have spoken at length about the cutbacks in benefits for young people. The cuts in benefits envisaged for young people is a recipe for emigration. They are not being given any hope of employment. The schemes advocated are little more than a token effort by the Government to create some training places. This cut is an attack on young people. We are not giving them any confidence in the political system or any hope of jobs in the future. We have opposed the cut in benefits down to €100 and €150 and we will be opposing this section.