Taoiseach Simon Harris has given hints of an impending cost-of-living package in Budget 2025, aimed at aiding homeowners affected by the economic climate. On a Wednesday morning at the Government Buildings, Mr. Harris made it clear that despite the declining inflation levels, not all families and businesses have yet experienced this respite. The specifics of the cost-of-living package are yet to be determined.
Emphasising the need for this package, Mr Harris stated that many residents are still under financial strain. He acknowledged that although there are indicators of a considerable reduction in inflation, its impact has not been realised in households, businesses, and farms across Ireland.
Mr Harris further added that the Government should implement measures to assist those affected, considering the country’s favourable economic status. Details regarding the package’s content and size will be discussed in Government circles and revealed on October 1st, budget day.
This announcement has raised hopes for more lump sum payments in Budget 2025, due to the success of similar steps in the previous budget.
Addressing last year’s prevalent double child benefit, Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys labelled it tremendously popular, indicating the possibility of similar measures being initiated in the current year.
Ms Humphreys reminded us that lump sum payments emerged when inflation was high, and while inflation is down significantly, expenses like groceries continue to be a burden. There’s no doubt about that. Lump sums have proven very popular, she added.
The previous budget saw one-off payments including a €300 fuel allowance, a €400 provision for disability and a €400 Working Family Payment. Alongside this, it was confirmed by Mr. Harris that, in the coming month, an investigation is set to begin into the State’s management of the Covid-19 outbreak.
“I want to reaffirm today that the intention is to kickstart that in the early part of the upcoming month. The precise setup and schedule will be decided by the chair and the appointed panel. But I anticipate further developments on this in the next month,” he stated.
Furthermore, the Justice Minister, Helen McEntee, verified that she plans to move forward with the contentious legislation on hate speech and hate crimes in the upcoming Dáil term.
“There are several legislative pieces I plan to push forward in the new term. Hate crime legislation is one of them and I will make this explicit when the Dáil reconvenes in September,” she added.