Louise O'Reilly
Question:711. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection for an update on the progress made towards a material reduction in rates of child poverty. [7091/26]
View answerTuesday, 27 January 2026
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Reducing child poverty is a key priority for this Government, as set out in the Programme for Government. In September 2025, the Government agreed a new Child Poverty Target to reduce the child consistent poverty rate to 3% or less by 2030, representing a reduction of nearly 60% from the current rate of 8.5%. This target is guiding action and investment across government.
To support this work, the Child Poverty and Well-being Programme Office in the Department of the Taoiseach is developing a series of relevant statistical measures, a Dashboard of Indicators to track progress in a more holistic way. Poverty in Ireland is measured on a relative basis, and our consistent poverty indicator which is unique to Ireland, captures both low income and material deprivation. This ensures that supports are targeted towards families with the greatest needs.
Budget 2026 reflects the Government’s continued commitment to tackling child poverty, with €320 million allocated by my Department specifically for this purpose. Key measures include the largest ever increases to Child Support Payments, higher income thresholds for the Working Family Payment, expanded access to the Fuel Allowance and Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance. This additional investment supplements cross government initiatives already underway such as free school meals, free school books, the free GP visit card, and enhancements to Early Childhood Care and Education schemes.
Recent CSO data show a welcome reduction in the child enforced deprivation rate in 2025, demonstrating the impact of Government measures to date. Further updated figures from the 2025 Survey on Income and Living Conditions, are expected in March 2026, will provide a clearer picture of emerging trends.
Given the multi-dimensional nature of child poverty, this work requires a whole-of-Government approach across income supports, housing, employment, childcare and public services.