The ESRI study said this was due to opposing effects in the tax and benefits system, education levels and unequal wages.

Heather Humphreys said she wanted to expand the qualification for the fuel allowance.

Taoiseach Simon Harris described the proposals as ‘fair’.

Simon Harris said he wanted to see a ‘compassionate’ system, but aligned with common sense.

Disability activists had criticised proposals in a recent Green Paper.

Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys said the measures would be brought to Cabinet on Tuesday