Breeda Moynihan-Cronin (Kerry South, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 462: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will restore the MABS supplement to assist people with debts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35250/06]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department has overall responsibility for the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) which provides assistance to people who are over-indebted and need intensive help and advice in coping with their debt problems. The service places an emphasis on practical budget-based measures that help people to move permanently from dependence on moneylenders and to access alternative sources of low-cost credit, particularly through their local credit union. It is with the support and expertise of the MABS companies throughout the country that people can be best assisted in sorting out their debts. MABS supplements, paid in a minority of cases by certain former health boards through the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, ceased in 2003. I have no plans to reintroduce such supplements, given the successful arrangements that are in place at MABS outlets throughout the State. A person who is experiencing particular financial difficulties may apply to the community welfare service of the Health Services Executive for an exceptional needs payment or other form of short-term income support through the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.