Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before now, many people who were in much more difficult situations because they were not in a position to avail of the bereavement grant had to depend on exceptional needs payments for assistance following bereavements. That worked well. Other supports are provided to spouses who have dependent children. If a reduction was needed in this element of the budget, on balance I think the Minister has probably provided for it in the best way possible. She is ensuring that those who are in difficult financial circumstances will be able to avail of an exceptional needs payment. It is true that in many cases, the €850 ended up as part of a significant estate and the dependants ended up quite well off as a result of the passing of a loved one. I hope that some day we will be able to move away from universal payments in many other areas.