Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

I understand where Senator Cummins is coming from and any means to combat fraud must be welcomed. We are concerned about how effective is the technology and the impact it will have on fraud. The Labour amendment asks if there will be a pilot scheme, and Fine Gael is also wondering about that. How will the scheme be effected and where will it be rolled out? What will be the period of operation?

The Minister previously responsible for social welfare, Deputy Hanafin, indicated in 2008 that face to face contact with social welfare recipients is a good thing. I have grave concerns about how effective the signing pad and other technological aids to recognition will be.