Clare’s TDs have locked horns over whether Budget 2025 will give a helping hand to those in greatest need, or is simply thinly-veiled electioneering.
Minister for Finance Jack Chambers has claimed the €8.3 billion package will put the country on a “firm footing for the future”, but critics have dismissed it as a giveaway as the clock winds down to Election Day.
Dubbed the largest Budget since the Celtic Tiger, this year’s Budget contains a raft of measures aimed at appeasing various cohorts across society.
Included in its record €2 billion social protection package are double payments for some social welfare recpients in October and a €12 increase in the weekly Social Protection payment.
Two energy credits of €250 will go to every households on either side of Christmas while the 9% reduced VAT rate on gas and electricity will be extended to the end of April next year.
These measures, according to Minister Chambers, are to “support the most vulnerable and ease the financial burden over the winter months”.
Other aspects of the package include a double payment of child benefit, an extension of the free schoolbook initiative and a cut to USC.
Meelick Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe believes the Budget looks after the young, the elderly and the vulnerable while giving particular assistance to Middle Ireland.
Critics of the Government, meanwhile, have pointed out the prevalence in the Budget of one-off payments such as the aforementioned energy credit, as well as the rent tax credit which will rise from €750 to €1,000 for single tenants, and to €2,000 for a jointly-assessed couple.
These, it’s been suggested, don’t get to the root of the cost-of-living crisis and merely act as particular groups on side ahead of an impending election.
Other measures that have come under fire include the €7.50 increase on the current rate of carbon tax on petrol and diesel from €56 to €63.50.
Kilrush Independent TD Violet Anne-Wynne insists the Budget lacks compassion and claims the Government is “buying votes”.
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