Children are considered one of the most defenceless segments of society and unfortunately, they have often been neglected throughout history. The tragic accounts of historical sexual abuse in faith-based schools that surfaced earlier this week have been followed by more mundane reports of numerous modern-day children living in families that are unable to satisfy certain essential needs, with categorisation under poverty for some.
In a disturbing trend, the number of children facing deprivation of some form has increased in recent years to 230,000. This increase correlates with the inflationary cycle currently nearing its peak. Although there has been some improvement in the past, child impoverishment remains a persisting issue. Several families simply lack the reserves to participate fully in the societal structure.
Policy changes can play a crucial role in this issue. For instance, the continuous expansion of the complimentary primary school meals program offers crucial nutrition to a growing number of children, while free school books help to sustain their academic engagement.
However, the incessant presence of child poverty highlights the ongoing shortcomings of welfare initiatives. Much of this can be attributed to setting priorities – a shift away from gradualness is essential to break free from policy constraints that hinder progress. The government, having control over taxation and expenditure, can provide more assistance to the younger, more susceptible families. A study by the Economic and Social Research Institute in collaboration with Community Foundation Ireland found that approximately twenty percent of households with children up to a five-year age bracket are impoverished, an absolutely intolerable statistic. As the Irish Prime Minister, Simon Harris pointed out this week, a prosperous nation like Ireland must do a lot better.
A potential solution was presented in the latest version of the ESRI study. The proposition entails a second tier of child welfare payments which would be supplemental to the ones currently received. This wider second tier would also include working recipients and would target child poverty alleviation directly. This approach would undoubtedly be more cost-effective than raising general child benefits that are extended to all families.
Throughout the Covid-19 crisis and the following inflation boom, the Government remained centered on transitory relief measures to aid families in navigating these unparalleled scenarios. In a general sense, this strategy proved effective and provided support to households. However, as inflation rates begin to dip, the need for a long-lasting plan that centres on establishing enduring support systems for families with children becomes crucial. One of the key areas should be an increased level of child support resources.
As we approach our next general election, it’s likely that such foresighted planning may not be high on the agenda during budgetary preparations. Yet, isn’t this the ideal opportunity for the current Government to provide a plan of action for their next term if they’re re-elected, while also offering a chance for Opposition members to express their perspectives? If tackling child poverty is not addressed as a pivotal issue during the election proceedings, we risk prolonging this crisis indefinitely.