Overview

This bill grants the UK government the power to make changes to social security, child support, and employment arrangements in Northern Ireland through Orders in Council. These changes can amend existing laws, create new offenses, and make different provisions for different areas. The power expires at the end of 2016.

Description

The Northern Ireland (Welfare Reform) Bill allows the UK government to modify welfare systems in Northern Ireland via Orders in Council. These Orders can:

• Amend, repeal, or revoke existing laws related to social security, child support, and employment (as defined under the Employment and Training Act (Northern Ireland) 1950).
• Create new legislation in these areas.
• Introduce new criminal offenses or penalties.
• Implement different rules in different parts of Northern Ireland.
• Include transitional arrangements.

The bill requires that any Order in Council must be approved by both Houses of Parliament before it can be enacted. The power granted by the bill has a sunset clause, expiring on December 31, 2016.

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't directly allocate funds. Its impact on government spending depends entirely on the content of the Orders in Council made under its authority. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

The bill's impact will primarily affect:

• Residents of Northern Ireland: Changes to social security, child support, and employment schemes will directly affect their benefits, entitlements, and employment opportunities.
• Northern Ireland Government Departments: These departments will be responsible for implementing and administering any changes brought about by Orders in Council.
• Employers in Northern Ireland: Changes to employment legislation could impact employment practices and regulations.
• Families in Northern Ireland: Changes to child support will directly impact families.

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