A Review of the Free Schemes Operated by the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs

• Author: Orlaigh Quinn
• Blue Paper #5 PDF (8.3MB)

Blue Paper Abstract

A Review of the Free Schemes Operated by the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs examines the social welfare benefit-in-kind schemes: Free Travel, Free Electricity/Gas Allowance, Free TV Licence and Free Telephone Rental Allowance. It examines the underlying rationale of the schemes and their performance using efficiency criteria and customer views, and assesses their overall contribution to combating poverty and social exclusion. The research is greatly enhanced by the results of surveys conducted with the recipients of the schemes. Demands to extend the schemes to other groups are examined and a number of recommendations proposed. Payment arrangements with the service providers are analysed in t he light of State sector deregulation.

About the Author

Orlaigh Quinn, is an Assistant Principal in the Planning Unit of the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs. Her areas of responsibility include research, evaluation and the development of social policy in Ireland, most recently in relation to social welfare schemes in support of informal carers in the community, long term dependency and the Free Schemes.

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