Marie Moloney (Labour)

Yes. Previously, that was the case. I do not know the reason it was changed. Perhaps we should revert to the old system which would, at least, ensure rent was paid and a roof kept over a person's head.

It is also welcome that the Minister is extending the list of social welfare payments excluded from the general disqualification for receipt of a weekly social welfare payment where a person is participating in a community employment scheme and providing for a risk requirement which will help to protect pension scheme members' benefits against future volatility in the markets.

Senator Terry Leyden spoke about the social services card. While I agree with him that we must accelerate its introduction, I remind him that we are still waiting for the driving licence card promised 15 years ago by Fianna Fáil. It is to be hoped it will not take as long to introduce the social services card.

The provision in respect of mortgage interest supplement will make life hard for many. While negotiating with the banks might be okay for some, for others it is tough. Some people do not have good negotiating skills and find doing this hard.