Opposition Urge Increase In Pensions And Dole In Budget

Fine Gael have urged the Government to "protect the vulnerable" in the coming Budget today, with recommendations for pensioners and the out-of-work.

The Fine Gael Social & Family Affairs Spokesperson, Olwyn Enright said that Brian Lenihan had one last chance to protect the vulnerable in his Budget and that pensions and Jobseekers' Benefit must increase by at least the rate of inflation of 4.5%.

"It will be a betrayal of the most vulnerable in society if the State pension is not increased by at least €10 a week and Jobseekers' Benefit by €9 to keep track with inflation," he said.

The Minister said his proposals addressed the underlying weaknesses in the economy as well as providing scope for positive things to be done for those most in need.

Mr Enright added that increasing the State pension and Jobseekers' Benefit in line with inflation were positive proposals, and would avoid making scapegoats of the "weak and vulnerable".

However the minister did not provide any further details on the proposals, such as were how much his proposal would cost, or where the money would come from.

(DW)