Sir, I agree "with Noreen Byrne that we have a system which contributes to the problem of "welfare fraud" and anomalies in the Live Register. The system is inherently and atavistically wrong. It forces women, in particular, to deny the work that they do. It is time to understand that there is no such thing as an unemployed woman. Every woman works the only distinction is that some are paid to do other work as well. The Government recognises, and pays, the true value of women's unwaged work in securing the wealth and health of our society, and allows unwaged women the same benefits as those who try to (but cannot) find paid work the injustices and anomalies will continue. What is a woman to do, who must stay at home to look after children or relatives? How can she improve her skills for when she is available for paid work, if she is denied educational or training programmes because she is not on the Live Register?
And yet, to go on the Liver, she must tell lies and pretend she is actively seeking work (when she's already overworked) and thus be guilty of welfare fraud".
Yours, etc., St Bridget's Place, Lower, Galway.