Budget increases and social welfare
The Leader answered questions on social welfare timing, saying the €5 increase would begin in March through finance or welfare legislation and would benefit 840,000 people. Senators pressed for details, and the Leader defended the budget’s approach.
I do not agree with the Senator.
Senator Grace O'Sullivan referred to the CETA. I will be happy to invite the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Mary Mitchell O'Connor, to come to the House to address the points made by the Senator.
Senator Kevin Humphreys referred to social welfare payments and referenced savings of €28 million. I will answer the Senator's question. On the ambiguity about the payment date, the position is very simple. The Government wanted to give a €5 increase to everybody, although some did not want to give an increase to anybody. If one looks at Sinn Féin's alternative budget, one can see that it would give less. I have read Sinn Féin's documentation and it was proposing to give less.
Comment on this
Sinn Fein was proposing to give less.
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As a consequence of the budgetary measures, 840,000 people will benefit.
Comment on this
I accept that, but I am replying to the points raised on the Order of Business. Up to 840,000 people will benefit from the increases in social welfare payments included in the budget. It is important that we welcome them.
Comment on this
When will the measures be introduced?
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In March. They will be introduced either in the Finance Bill or the Social Welfare Bill. What Senators should welcome and focus on is the fact that all those in receipt of social protection payments will receive an increase of €5 which will restore and uplift their fortunes.