Plans to name and shame convicted welfare cheats on public list announced

People convicted of social welfare fraud could soon be named on a list similar to the tax defaulters list, which would be published on a quarterly basis.

Minister for Social Protection, Leo Varadkar announced the proposed changes yesterday as part of the Social Welfare Bill 2017.

The Bill will also see changes to the rules around Defined Benefit Pension schemes, with employers having to give 12 months notice if they plan to cease contributions.

Speaking yesterday Minister Varadkar said the naming of those found guilty of welfare fraud is easily done, and will only apply to those convicted in the courts.

He said: “What we are going to do is publish, on a quarterly basis, the names, addresses and penalties incurred by people who are convicted of welfare fraud.

He continued: “You do have to be convicted by the courts for this to apply and it’s the case that that we can already do this, as you know the courts are a public place.”

A statement from the Department of Social Protection went on to say that the publication of such a list “in this way will send a stronger message to that small number of people prepared to risk defrauding the welfare system and their fellow citizens”.

Those convicted and named on the list could also have their payments reduced for a period of time, which the department said “reinforces the message that defrauding the welfare system will not be rewarded”.

So what do you think? Should convicted welfare cheats be named and shamed on a public list?