The number of one-parent families claiming assistance increased by almost 9 per cent in the past 1 1/2 years, according to the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs. There were 67,738 one-parent families claiming assistance in May, compared to 58,960 at the beginning of 1998. In the first half of this year the figure rose by 2,190.
Of the 67,738, just over 50,000 are unmarried parents, 15,575 are separated and 1,575 have been widowed.
Since 1990 the number of separated parents claiming assistance rose by 276 per cent, with unmarried parents' assistance increasing by 158 per cent during the same period.
Previous studies indicated that the average period for which unmarried parents claimed assistance was five years. However, research currently being undertaken by the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs is understood to have shown this period lengthening.
Yesterday, the Minister, Mr Ahern, said the "most effective way for lone parents to achieve financial independence is through employment", adding that many people needed support and assistance when trying to rejoin the workforce. He was speaking in Dublin at an information seminar on one-parent families and what services are available to them.
At the event he launched an updated guide for one-parent families which included information on social welfare entitlements, work and study options, tax matters, separation and divorce and child related issues.
Mr Ahern announced that social welfare local offices would develop a new "one stop shop concept" aimed at families. Mr Ahern said that for the first time lone parents, carers and mothers in the home would be able to access a range of local services through the department's local office network.
Further increases in child benefit would be needed to help parents meet the cost of child-rearing in the future, the Minister said. He added that he would be recommending future increases as a "vital component in the overall package of family policies".
He said the department was also considering a "longitudinal" study of children, which would help the Government "develop policy and services" for the future. The study would monitor a group of people from birth to death and would reveal significant insights into the needs of young people.