67 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs when the cash payment to asylum seekers, administered by his Department under the direct provision system, was last increased; the percentage by which social supplementary welfare allowance payments were increased in the same period; his plans for an increase in the amount; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6596/02]

The income maintenance needs of asylum seekers is met for the most part by the health board through the supplementary welfare allowance scheme. The main objective of the scheme is to make up the difference between a person's means whether in cash or in kind and their needs. Where a person has access to some resources in kind or in cash, through the social welfare system or otherwise, the relevant legislation requires that this be taken into account in determining entitlement to supplementary welfare allowance.

This occurs in the case of asylum seekers who arrived since 10 April 2000. They are provided with full board accommodation, including all meals and other services under the system of direct provision operated by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. In such cases the recommended weekly allowance is €19.05 per adult and €9.52 per child to provide for personal requisites. Furthermore, where there are other reasonable expenses exceptional needs payments are made by the health boards.