Social Welfare Reform falls short of the mark
31 May 2010 12:37 PM
31 May 2010
PRESS RELEASE
Social Welfare Reform falls short of the mark
Changes proposed in the new Social Welfare Bill will not help lone parents out of the poverty trap, said Berni Brady, Director of AONTAS. She was reacting to the publication of the new Bill on Friday, which proposes a number of controversial new measures.
'The ambition to replicate the positive achievements in other European countries is admirable', said Ms Brady. 'But this is like comparing apples with oranges. Other European countries, which favour this approach also have greater supports for lone parents - this includes much more accessible and affordable childcare, as well as more flexible learning options.'
The Bill proposes to cut the rate of Jobseekers allowance to those who refuse an offer of employment, education or training. 'This raises questions about communication between the Department of Social Protection and the Department of Education and Skills' said Ms Brady. 'Our own experience and research has shown that the demand for training and education has soared in line with the recession. For example Carlow VEC recently reported that for every place on one of their courses, there are three applicants. Waiting lists for courses are now a given, and the adult education services are stretched in meeting the demand for education.
The promotion of upskilling and the knowledge economy in recent months has created a real appetite for adult education - unfortunately many adults may not be in a position to avail of it because they cannot afford it, or because they cannot access a course due to the high demand for places. How realistic is this measure when there are so few employment opportunities available at all?'
'Our scarce resources need to be used wisely at this time. Pushing someone onto a course that may not suit their needs will be detrimental and will cost the government in the long term. Education and training must be relevant, realistic and lead to progression', she added.
We are supportive of 'a general move away from the long-term and passive income support', she said, but we must acknowledge that adults, and particularly lone parents, will need additional financial support to avail of education, training and employment, as well as more flexible learning options.' Budget 2010 also brought in changes which prevent those on the Back to Education Allowance from qualifying for a Student Maintenance Grant. 'This will act as a disincentive for many adults thinking about returning to third level education' she concluded.
ENDS
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