(Image: Pixabay)The Labour party is denying couples will falsely claim they are living together if marital rights are extended to those who co-habit.
A bill was introduced in the Seanad today which, if supported, would see benefits enjoyed by married couples extended to those who live together.
It follows a recent case in the High Court where a man, whose partner of 20 years had died, was denied an 8 thousand euro bereavement grant and pension rights.
150 thousand couples share a home and children here, without being married.
Labour senator Mark Wall denies any changes would be open to abuse:
"We have social welfare inspectors, we have legislation for other social welfare payment and I'm sure the legislation we're bringing forward will also address that. "
"I'm sure that the government will ensure the legislation is fit for purpose and will entail that as well, that's what we need."
"We need to look after those that have made the choice that they don't want to marry for a variety of reasons."
