Finance Minister Tonio Fenech today announced an increase in children's allowance and more assistance to persons with disabilities.

He said that the minimum rate of children's allowance, currently €250 per child, will increase by €100.

In his Budget speech, Mr Fenech promised that the Fraud and Benefit Investigation Department, which has already uncovered 4,240 cases of benefit fraud and saved €21.1m, will be further strengthening its efforts.

As from next year, he said, widows and widowers entitled to a fixed pension after they remarry, will keep this pension beyond the first five years of marriage.

Severely disabled persons who are entitled to a severe disability pension, will continue to receive their pension even if they get a job paying more than the minimum age. Severely disabled persons who marry will also not forfeit their pension, regardless of the spouse's income.

Mr Fenech said the 'Sapport' Agency will open a new branch in Pembroke and there will be increased aid for residential homes such as Dar Pirotta, Dar il-Wens and Dar l-Arka.

TV LICENCES TO BE REMOVED

The Minister also announced that the television licence will be removed next year, but those in arrears will need to pay their arrears.