Burton may reduce one-parent entitlement age

There is speculation that the Minister for Social Protection could introduce major changes to the single-parent welfare scheme in December's Budget.

The Sunday Times reports that Joan Burton is planning a radical cut in the age at which children no longer qualify under the lone-parent's allowance.

It is understood the Minister is considering cuts to the €1.1bn One Parent Family payments by changing the qualifying age of the child from 14 to seven.

It is thought the measure would encourage lone parents to return to work earlier.