There have been welcome announcements in today’s Budget 2025, but not enough support targeted at people on lowest incomes. COPE Galway will review the details of the measures as they are revealed over the next few days. In the meantime, below is COPE Galway’s initial response to some of today’s measures.
On Cost of Living
We welcome the once-off targeted pay-outs included in Budget 2025’s cost-of-living measures, such as the €250 energy credits, and the double child benefit payments. While these reduce poverty in the short term, we recognise that they do little to impact ongoing poverty.
On Social Welfare
The €12 weekly increase for core social welfare payments is inadequate. As we pointed out in our pre-budget submission, a minimum of €25 is needed to ensure benchmarking to 27.5% of average earnings. This would help address the impact of inflation for lowest income households and ensure the weakest in our society are not left behind.
On Housing
We welcome the allocation of €7.8 billion to the Department of Housing, including €2 billion for the construction of 10,000 social homes. The capacity to deliver them, however, needs to be increased.
On Support for Combating Domestic Abuse
The announcement of an extra €7 million for organisations providing supports for victims of domestic and gender-based violence is welcome.
On Supports for Older People
We welcome the announcement during Positive Ageing Week of the introduction of a ‘Universal Companion Pass’ which will allow pensioners from age 70 to bring a family member or friend on public transport for free. The increased bus services in rural and urban areas will also help combat isolation. As mentioned in our pre-budget submission, we believe accessible, affordable transport can work to address loneliness in older people and help keep them active and involved in the community.
For further information, contact Martin O’Connor at COPE Galway. 091 778 750.
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