by Alan Jacques
NEW measures to reform and enhance the social welfare system, while supporting families and older people, are Fianna Fáil’s priorities over a five-year term if they are in government after the next general election.
That’s the view of Limerick TD Willie O’Dea who, as the Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Social Protection and Social Equality, said that his party recognises the need to build a more equal and cohesive society.
He says they would do this by reforming the social welfare system and increasing certain supports.
“Our first year priorities, which would involve an additional €107 million in spending, would include an upward revision of Rent Supplement caps of between five per cent and 15 per cent in areas of greatest pressure at a cost of €22 million; increasing lone parents’ supports by €33 million; reforming the Family Income Supplement (FIS) and replacing the ‘three day rule’ for job seekers,” he explained.
“Our longer term goals include reinstating the fuel allowance season to 32 weeks in recognition of the number of people suffering from fuel poverty. We would also extend Family Income Supplement to the self-employed and expand the Living Alone Allowance to €20 a week in recognition of the additional costs faced by those who live alone.”
“Our time in Government will be characterised by fresh thinking and innovative measures. We will establish a new commission to introduce a basic income level, abolish compulsory retirement at 65 and make the home care package support a statutory entitlement.
“These reforms, coupled with adequate supports, will ensure that our social protection system is responsive to people’s needs and protects those who need it most.”
