Dublin, October 2, 2023 – In anticipation of the upcoming local elections on October 10, the Irish government is set to unveil a slew of benefits in its National Budget. The Finance Minister’s announcements are expected to bring relief to commuters, parents, and middle-class families.
One significant development is the possible elimination of excise duty hikes on fuel, offering respite to citizens grappling with rising fuel prices. Funding for the School Meals Program will also see an increase, extending hot meal provisions to more schools. Moreover, breakfast allowances may rise to 75 cents per child.
The school feeding program, aimed at combating child hunger and supporting education, could expand to include meals during holidays. Additionally, the government intends to reduce third-level college fees by €1,000 and provide grants to single parents pursuing higher education.
In a bid to alleviate child poverty, childcare costs are set to decrease, and energy price concessions may be on the horizon. Income tax reforms, including widened pay bands and increased pay credits, are poised to benefit all sections of the population, along with a potential reduction in the Universal Social Charge (USC) by 0.5 percentage points.
With a commitment to enhancing social welfare payments by €10, the Irish government aims to empower its citizens and gain their support in the upcoming local elections.