A Clare Government TD is calling for interim measures ahead of the budget, saying the “car is still king in Clare”.
It follows the publication of the Summer Economic Statement this week, which has set out an increased package of 6.7 billion euro to help offset the cost-of-living crisis.
The Cabinet yesterday confirmed that the Budget for 2023 will be held two weeks early on September 27th and will see a spend of 6.7 billion euro on measures to address the cost of living crisis.
The Government parties intend to spend that money on social welfare increases, tax indexation and cuts to public transport fares.
A double social welfare bonus, a second electricity credit and a focus on the State pension are also being discussed.
CEO of Muintir Na Tíre, Niall Garvey, insists that while the future of rural Clare is bright, tax on fuel needs to be reduced in order to offer stability at the moment.
Clare’s Fianna Fáil TD belives the Government’s strategy is right, but admits the most important thing is that this budget frees up money for everyone to meet their living expenses.
He says the current situation is unworkable for people, as salaries are not rising in line with inflation.
The Meelick Deputy agrees that a balance needs to be struck in the budget, but there are measures that need to be taken in the meantime, particularly in relation to fuel.
A Clare Independent TD admits the Government is trying to counter inflation, but he says it’s not clear the Government is doing anything to counter the rising cost of living.
Scariff Deputy Michael McNamara insists that there will continue to be a problem unless measures are taken to cap the cost.
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