Roscommon-Galway TD Claire Kerrane has called on the government to ensure that the forthcoming Budget 2023 addresses the cost of living crisis.
This renewed call follows data from the CSO which showed that food and electricity prices have risen further this summer.
The July wholesale price index (WPI) indicates that prices continued to climb last month, propelled by the sharp rise in energy costs. This added additional costs to energy-intensive activities like milking and manufacturing.
Speaking today, Deputy Kerrane said that reports that households should expect higher prices for staple items like fish and dairy over the coming weeks is of serious concern.
She said that families and workers are already under serious pressure with the cost of living crisis, and further price increases will only add to that strain.
“Prices are spiralling and people are understandably very anxious. They are watching their bills come in, with no idea how they will pay them.
“This new data again underlines the need for a Budget which supports households with the soaring cost of living.”
The Sinn Féin TD said that next month’s Budget announcement must deliver a much-needed break for households who are crippled by these costs.
“This is urgent. People cannot keep waiting for the Government to act.
“We recognise that the Government cannot do everything. However, as I have said time and time again, they absolutely can do more to support families and workers.”