Catherine Ardagh (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Gabhaim buíochas leis an Leas-Chathaoirleach. I also thank Senator Craughwell for bringing these amendments forward.

On the face of it, it seems to be manifestly unfair that those who pay PRSI contributions have no benefits stemming from it. In the past number of years where we have had a particular influence in this House the public have become aware of the fact that one needs one's social welfare credits to continuously accrue if one is to be entitled to one's contributory pension down the road. I see my colleague, Senator Higgins, present in the House who has led the charge on pensions for women with a focus on their contributions and their disregards. I am aware that the Minister has so much going on today and her Department has done a great amount of work both in publishing this Bill and in the months gone by, but perhaps she might consider this amendment for her next social welfare Bill. The situation is very unfair.

We also want to ensure that we have a very good calibre of politicians in this House. As my colleague has stated, it should not be just for people who can afford it. We want to attract the best, people who think about their future and where things are going, are of good quality and should be in this House. Perhaps they may also be considering whether they will be getting social welfare credits. This is a basic thing when we consider our future and whether we are going to receive a pension or not. Senator Craughwell made me smile as I thought of his progression towards changing nappies and his sympathies for mothers but it is true. Many young mothers do carry much of the burden staying up at night and perhaps doing a little bit extra. It is probably not said but we women do a little bit more. The men are great these days. They are all changing nappies. It is not just the women. It is important for the Minister to have a look at this issue and I hope that she will do this in the future because at the moment it is just unfair. I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach.