Written answer
Social Welfare Payments
Consultation on the proposed Working Age Payment drew over 270 submissions, broadly supporting its aims, while detailed design remains under review and no decision has been made.
33. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Social Protection for an update on the new working age payment. [66686/26]
Comment on this
The Programme for Government includes a commitment to introduce a new Working Age Payment. In support of this commitment, the Department launched a public consultation on 5 May 2026 on the proposed Working Age Payment and Targeted Child Payment, with the consultation concluding on 12 June 2026. During the consultation period, an in-person event was conducted for stakeholders and the general public, where the proposed payment was discussed and set within a wider policy context.
The proposed Working Age Payment seeks to create a more flexible and responsive income support system for people of working age. The objective is to reduce payment cliff edges, ensure that people are financially better off when they take up employment or increase their working hours, and better reflect modern and diverse working patterns. The proposal is also intended to simplify aspects of the current system while maintaining support for those on low incomes.
The consultation process generated significant engagement from individuals, representative bodies and stakeholders, with over 270 submissions received. Overall, there was broad support for the overall objectives of the reform of reducing poverty, improving income adequacy and ensuring that work pays. Reflecting the high-level nature of the proposals, some submissions highlighted the need for further detail on the operation and design of the proposed payment before reaching a definitive view on specific aspects of the proposal.
The consultation process has generated a significant body of feedback which will inform the next phase of policy development. Officials from my department are undertaking further analysis and consideration of the issues raised, including the detailed design of any future Working Age Payment. No final decisions have been made, and any proposals brought forward will be shaped by the evidence and stakeholder feedback received through the consultation process.