the Senate, despite some Opposition concern.

Senators on Wednesday passed The Parish Assistance (Repeal) Act 1994.

Under it, cash help for the needy will be sent direct from the Social Services Department.

Previously parish councils sent out social assistance cheques.

Opposition Senators supported the legislation, but voiced concern parish councils were losing another role.

Government Senators, however, argued the Bill did not mean the death of the authorities.

They said Government was reviewing ways of enhancing the councils' role.

Senators this week also passed The Merchant Shipping (Demise Charter) Act 1994.