Roderic O’Gorman, the Green Party leader and Minister for Children, has proposed a special once-off bonus child benefit payment for new parents, alongside their first regular payment for their newborn.
This initiative aims to offer additional financial support during the early stages of parenthood.
In an interview with RTE, O’Gorman explained that the proposal would see the first child benefit payment of €140 boosted to €560, effectively quadrupling the amount.
The Green Party plans to introduce this idea in upcoming budgetary negotiations.
A monthly child benefit rate of €140 is given to parents or guardians of children under 16 in Ireland, regardless of income and social insurance (PRSI) record.
O’Gorman emphasised that although inflationary pressures are easing, many costs remain high, particularly for families with newborns.
He noted that the Government must continue to support families in meaningful ways during this challenging time.
Additionally, O’Gorman expressed his desire for the State to provide the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) years directly to pre-school children. He suggested that these two years should become a legal right for all children.