Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

What we have seen is more of the same. The proof of that is that house prices are up 14% and rents are up 8%. The truth is that the Government has continued with the same approach. Rather hearing an answer from the Taoiseach, he reached for excuses. I am well aware of the international context and of the inflationary pressures. By the way, the Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland has made it clear that this is not a momentary phenomenon. This is going to be with us for the next year. I want the Taoiseach to listen to people. I want him to listen to the experiences of families who are telling us and him that they are struggling to keep the lights on and to keep up with their bills and other costs. I want him to make clear what his Government proposes to do about that. They are introducing the €100 relief for energy costs, but that comes very late and, in truth, it will not be sufficient. I want to know what the Taoiseach will do in addition. I have suggested that he and the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Deputy Eamon Ryan, should act to ensure that there are solutions for customers and families struggling today.

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