Aindrias Moynihan
Ceist:54. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Social Protection the key measures to be taken to tackle poverty in 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2888/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 15 January 2026
Ceisteanna (54)
Freagraí scríofa
Reducing poverty levels is a priority for the Government. For Budget 2026, the Government prioritised targeted permanent measures to those who need it the most in order to lift as many people as possible out of poverty and deprivation. The Programme for Government reflects this recognition that we must target resources where they are needed most.
This year, the Government will invest €28.9 billion in social protection measures across the country. This includes more than €1.15 billion in new measures, including an investment of €320 million in social protection increases dedicated to alleviating child poverty.
Our investment this year includes a significant €10 increase in the rate of weekly payments provided. This is coupled with targeted measures which are proven to apply resources where they are most needed - for example extended eligibility and increases in Fuel Allowance, and the largest ever increases in Child Support Payments.
I firmly believe that the combined effect of these measures will work alleviate poverty levels and support people across the country.
We also know however that income supports alone are not enough. Given the multi-dimensional nature of poverty, the Government is also focused on continued and renewed action in other key areas, such as housing, employment, childcare and public services, and my Ministerial colleagues announced several such measures in Budget 2026.
Cross-Government actions to reduce poverty for the next five years will be outlined in the successor to the national poverty strategy, the Roadmap for Social Inclusion, which my Department is currently developing with the support of other Departments and will be published in the first half of 2026.