Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 489668835 series 2841800
Content provided by Niall Boylan. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Niall Boylan or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.

In this episode, Niall asks: Should Ireland bring in welfare payment cards?

We received an email from a listener who suggested that welfare payments should be issued on a card that can only be used for essentials like food and clothing. The card would block spending on alcohol, cigarettes, or gambling. Supporters say it ensures taxpayer money is spent responsibly. Critics say it is insulting and strips people of basic dignity.

Some callers agreed with the idea. They said State support should be used for essentials and argued that a card system would help protect families, especially where addiction is involved. They felt the measure was about accountability, not punishment.

Others disagreed, saying the proposal treats welfare recipients like children and unfairly assumes the worst of them. Some warned that it could lead to even tighter restrictions and punish people who already use their payments responsibly.

As Niall points out, this debate is not just about how people spend money. It is about how much control the State should have over private lives and whether help should come with conditions.

  continue reading

611 episodes