Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 201: To ask the Minister for Finance if he will introduce a savings scheme for low income households, on a pilot basis for two years, in the form suggested by the Society of St Vincent de Paul, the Money Advice and Budgeting Service and the Combat Poverty Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4048/07]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The proposal is to develop a pilot savings scheme for low-income households, similar to the SSIA scheme which is now in its final months. While the proposal has a number of socially progressive features, I am not convinced that a further SSIA type scheme is the appropriate way forward. Raising the income levels of those affected by more jobs, higher wages or better social welfare support may be more productive. That is what this Government's policies are achieving.