Principles of Social Welfare Bill 2021

Public bill · Private Member · Introduced

Sets out guiding principles for the social welfare system, including dignity, fairness, poverty reduction, equality, evidence-based policy and value for money, and says those principles should inform how the system is run and interpreted. It would create a social welfare charter spelling out what people can expect from Government, officials and claimants, require regular reviews and public reporting, and give courts the ability to take the principles and charter into account. It would also push the State to actively find and inform people about benefits they may be entitled to, make it easier to access information and support, let people bring a supporter to welfare interviews, and give the Citizens Information Board a stronger oversight and reporting role.

Formal long title

Bill entitled an Act to make provision for a statement of principles to inform the interpretation and administration of the Social Welfare Acts; to provide for a social welfare charter; to impose a duty to promote the take-up of social welfare entitlements; to set out certain rights to information, advocacy and support for social welfare applicants and recipients; to confer additional functions on the Citizens Information Board; and to provide for related matters.

Last updated 11 September 2024