One-parent and large families the biggest losers

ONE-PARENT and large families will take the biggest hits following the changes to social welfare entitlements, with families with four children losing a minimum of €432 per year.

Under the new arrangements, the extra child benefit paid for third and subsequent children will be reduced to the standard rate of €140 per month currently paid for first and second children.

The reduction will take place in phases over the next two years, cutting €19 per month off the rate paid for a third child and €17 from fourth and subsequent children next year with further cuts of €8 and €20 respectively in 2013.