SVP calls for social welfare system ‘road map’ to tackle poverty traps

A LEADING charity has called on Social and Family Affairs Minister Mary Coughlan to implement a simpler and more understandable system of social welfare to remove families from poverty traps.

The Society of St Vincent de Paul said vulnerable families were struggling on the margins of society due to the present system, which involves numerous schemes and varying eligibility rules.

“We’re looking for significant improvements in the way information and services are made available for families most in need right round Ireland,” said SVP vice-president John Monaghan. “We’re calling for an end to bureaucratic, rigid and non-responsive procedures which inhibit take-up of entitlements.”