A new swathe of welfare cuts is in prospect as preparations for Budget 2014 next Tuesday move into their final phase.
Under examination is the possibility of cuts from the gas, electricity and telephone allowances under the household benefit package for pensioners and people with disabilities. Cuts to entitlements under the package this year aim to yield €84 million.
With headline welfare rates not threatened, the focus is on secondary benefits .... http://www.irishtimes.com
