Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein)
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Question 30: To ask the Minister for Social Protection her views on whether cuts to social welfare have a negative impact on local economies as demonstrated by the level of retail sales which fell even further during the 3rd quarter of 2011. [36257/11]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The economic crisis has had a major impact on disposable household incomes and on private consumption which has in turn impacted on the level of retail sales in Ireland. The "Motor Trades" category accounts for a significant proportion of the fall in the volume of retail sales. Any changes to the schemes and services operated by my Department, including changes to rates of payments, will be informed by the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure which has been completed by my Department, with the key decisions being made in the context of framing the Budget for 2012.