Tánaiste warns of penalties for long‑term welfare recipients

Tánaiste Simon Harris said there will be penalties for people who remain on social welfare for extended periods, describing the “dole” as a safety net, not a way of life.

Speaking at the Fine Gael Ard Fheis at University College Cork on Saturday evening, Harris addressed the 1,200 delegates and urged a “renewed focus” on intensive engagement with the long‑term unemployed. He said the party wants a new Pathways to Work plan, similar to activation strategies used in previous Fine Gael governments.

Harris also highlighted other policy areas, including a new national migration strategy, tougher action on illegal migration, and measures to combat drug‑related intimidation. He referenced recent actions to clear illegal tents in Dublin and pledged further system‑strengthening changes.

In addition, the Tánaiste spoke about recent welfare reforms such as Pay‑Related Benefit and announced plans to introduce Pay‑Related Parents Benefit to protect parents’ incomes while caring for newborns.

The Ard Fheis will continue on Sunday, when Fine Gael is expected to unveil its blueprint for a unified Ireland.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Artem Kulinych / Pexels.