83 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs his plans to combat misinformation regarding the social welfare entitlements of refugees and asylum seekers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6597/02]

I am aware of rumours circulating that asylum seekers and refugees are in receipt of payments from the social welfare system which Irish citizens do not get in respect of items such as cars. These rumours are untrue and without foundation. I agree with the Deputy that they are used to promote resentment against asylum seekers and refugees and for that reason, I am glad to refute these stories today.

As the Deputy is aware, asylum seekers generally do not have the right to work while awaiting a decision on their claim for asylum. Their income maintenance needs are met for the most part by the health boards 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.