Thousands of widows and carers living close to the poverty line should receive cash payments so that they can feel the benefit of Ireland's booming economy, according to Ms Kathleen O'Meara, a Labour Party senator.
Ms O'Meara called on the Minister for Social Welfare, Mr Ahern, to take immediate action. "Ireland's widows are becoming the forgotten minority. I have met too many who are living lives of desperation, unable to survive on their pensions. This is unacceptable in this age of plenty."
Senator O'Meara said that increased support for carers would save the State money by keeping many of those needing care out of institutions.