A Roscommon-Galway TD has called on the Government to take urgent action on introducing a cost of living package to support families and workers.
Deputy Claire Kerrane’s call follows the British Government’s announcement of a £15 billion package this afternoon to help families struggling with rising costs.
Their package includes a £650 one-off payment to low-income households and an energy bill discount of £400 this autumn.
Speaking today, the Sinn Féin TD said that it ‘speaks volumes’ that the Tory government is introducing measures before Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil.
She said the Irish government has ‘dragged its heels yet again’ at a time when households need supports.
Her party put forward proposals on introducing measures to support households, including a direct cost of living cash payment.
Under the party’s proposals, someone with an income of up to €30,000 would receive a cash payment of €200, and an individual on income of between €30,000 and €60,000 would receive a payment of €100.
“We have also repeatedly called for the introduction of a €15m Discretionary Fund, to support households facing utility debt especially for those who are locked out of supports like the Fuel Allowance,” said Deputy Kerrane.
“This is in addition to our proposals to cut childcare costs, freeze rents and address rising energy costs.
“These measures would ease the pressure facing families and workers, whilst ensuring those households that are most vulnerable to the soaring cost of living receive targeted supports.”
