The government has unveiled Budget 2026, featuring a €10 increase to all core social welfare rates, a minimum wage hike to €14.15, and significant VAT changes for businesses. Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe and Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers announced the measures, which include a double Christmas bonus payment for social welfare recipients and a 65-cent … Read more
Proposed social welfare increases of up to €12 are at risk after the Department of Social Protection was instructed to revise its budget submissions following concerns over excessive spending demands. Social Protection Minister Dara Calleary has been told by Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers to “go back to the drawing board” on his department’s Budget … Read more
Over 11,300 asylum-seekers get less than 40 euros a week in social welfare from the state. The state provides only €5.50 per day in social welfare to more than 9,300 adult asylum seekers. Another 2,000 kids who are in direct provision receive the daily equivalent of €4.25 each. The Daily Expenses Allowance, which is given … Read more