Gov't accepts 500+ benefit program

During its Tuesday's sitting, the government accepted the 500+ benefit program designed to  reverse Poland's negative demographic trends. Under the program, the government plans to hand out PLN 500 per month for every child in a family whose per capita income is lower than PLN 800 per month and for every second and subsequent child, regardless of family income. It is set to be introduced in April 2016. The sum is aimed at all parents, including single parents and is not subject to taxes. Passing through the 500+ program was PiS' main pledge during the election campaign before the October general election. "I kept my promise," said Prime Minister Beata Szydło while waving a copy of the document. "This is a draft of the bill that in a moment I will present the Speaker of the Sejm with," she added.