The Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Mary Hanafin, has said other departments will 'feel the pinch' to ensure that her department does not have to make any cutbacks.
At the launch of a new report on family carers, Minister Hanafin said that she does not envisage any savings being found in any welfare programmes at Budget time.
Minister Hanafin said no welfare payments will be cut back, adding that even more payments will be made this year if more people lose their jobs.
She said that the main commitment of Government is to provide for those who need assistance.
Ms Hanafin said that the Government wants to keep people at work, but it will continue to support those who are depending on welfare or have lost their jobs.
She said providing support would continue to be a priority no matter what the economic circumstances, and urged anyone who has problems meeting rent or mortgage payments to look for help.
