Department saves E306m in fraud control

FRAUD and abuse controls in the Department of Social and Family Affairs realised savings of over E306 million last year, it was announced yesterday.

Social Affairs Minister Mary Coughlan said total savings, which were up by E17m on 2002, resulted from normal reviews by the Department and the work of staff engaged in investigative work.

Stressing that her officials have a very focused approach to fraud control, Ms Coughlan said she wants to ensure that her Department’s budget is used to benefit those people who are genuinely dependent on a basic social welfare payment every week.