Burton denies row-back on Lone Parent Allowance cuts

Minister for Social Protection Joan Burton has today denied that she is rowing back on plans to cut the Lone Parent Allowance.

Speaking in the Dáil last night, Minister Burton indicated that she may change plans to cut the allowance when a child reaches the age of seven.

However, this morning she said that the cut-off age of seven was never meant to be introduced until 2014.

She said that it leaves the Government time to ensure commitments on other child welfare issues are reached.

"That is meant for 2014 - this April we proceed to reduce the age and next year as well," she said.

"The cut-off point of seven is meant for 2014. That gives us time to actually begin to set in motion in particular the after-care structure."