Jillian van Turnhout (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I also thank the Minister of State, Deputy Kevin Humphreys, and his officials. I particularly like his constructive engagement with the House and I appreciate it. The Members of the House appreciate it.

It is good to be in a position to be supportive of the Social Welfare and Pensions Bill and to see some changes. However, I reiterate the point I made on Second Stage that we need to look at how we ensure positive outcomes and that our policies are focused on the outcomes. Throughout the recession we were told that cash transfers were not the answer and investment in services and supports were how we could better address the issue. I would look to the UNICEF report which I cited on how badly children fared in the recession in Ireland by comparison with those in other OECD countries going through a similar recession. If we are to look at policies, can we look at the outcomes? Can we look at children in poverty and ask what is the best way? The best way is in putting it into education and health, and in putting those supports in place in order that families will have both hope, the need for which was correctly pointed to by Senator Mooney, and security. Families should know their services are secure and it is not trying to make ends meet. I encourage the Minister of State to continue in this way and I thank him for his engagement.