A Clare Independent TD has hit out over the budget, saying the highest earners are being rewarded the most.
Yesterday the Government announced an 11 billion euro package of measures aimed at tackling the cost of living crisis.
As part of budget 2023, those earning 40,000 euro or more will get 800 euro a year back in income tax under new proposals, with a 25 percent reduction in childcare, a double child benefit payment and free primary school books on the cards for families.
Renters are to benefit from a 500 euro tax credit, while social welfare payments will see a 12 euro weekly increase across the board, along with double payments at Halloween and Christmas.
A Clare Independent TD says the Budget doesn’t go far enough, with higher earners being rewarded the most.
Violet Anne Wynne believes one off payments won’t make much of a difference to people facing poverty and exclusion on a daily basis.
A Clare Government TD has defended the budget however, saying it targets the most vulnerable in society.
Joe Carey admits that one-off measures aren’t a silver bullet, but are designed to help, and says that while this package won’t solve everyone’s problems, it goes a long way towards shielding the blow of the current energy and cost of living crisis.
The Simon Community has described the budget as an admission that the crisis is going to get worse, but Deputy Carey says there is money in the tank to intervene if or when things get worse.
Listen back to the full interview here:
