Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State has not told me anything new. I knew about these payments and allowances that are allocated to the elderly. This is a very specific allowance for broadband, which can be a considerable cost to the elderly, particularly those who live on their own and have nobody. Those who live on their own are the most vulnerable. The allowance of €2.50, which amounts to around €113 a year, probably pays for two months of broadband costs. I ask that the Government look at providing a broadband allowance as part of public expenditure in the next budget. It could be added to the household benefits package. We are trying to encourage people to go online, particularly because of Covid. If something else happens, for example, another pandemic, people will feel more isolated. This proposal is an ideal way of connecting our elderly to those who may not be able to get in touch with them on a daily basis.