Lone parents are to lose their State payments when the youngest child reaches the age of 13 if a Bill published by the Government today becomes law.
The current cut-off age for the One-Parent Family Payment is when the youngest turns 18, or 22 if in full-time education and if they pass a means test.
The Social Welfare Bill also provides for Jobseeker's Allowance to be taken away from a person who refuses an offer of suitable employment.
It also provides for the reduction of the Allowance if they refuse to participate in an appropriate training course.
Changes
- One-Parent Family Payment to be reduced from April 2011 when the youngest child reaches the age of 13.
- Disqualification of receipt of Jobseeker's Allowance where the person refuses an offer of suitable employment.
- Reduced rate of Jobseeker's Allowance or Supplements for claimants who refuse to participate in courses and training.
- Names, addresses, fines and penalties of people who have been convicted of offences under social welfare legislation to be published.
The Bill will be debated in both Houses of the Oireachtas in June and early July.
