Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the news that both the Taoiseach and Tánaiste finally acknowledged last night that this €100 credit does not go far enough to help people who are trapped in the cost-of-living crisis. When this proposal first came up, we in Sinn Féin explained that it would not be enough. It has taken too long for the Government to realise this. It goes to show how out of touch the Government is with ordinary people and the cost-of-living crisis that ordinary families must live through every week. The crisis affects everyone. At one time, this would just affect those in poverty, in social housing and on low incomes. However, we are now hearing that this is affecting people with good jobs, including families with both parents working. The cost increases in electricity, gas, oil and rent are now crippling families and other people who are trying to work and get by.

I will give one example. Home heating oil has increased by 53%. In May of this year, the Government will introduce the carbon tax which will drive these prices up even more. What the Government is doing is a scandal and shame. During the Covid-19 crisis we all stood together, but that seems to be the only time the Government will stand with people. We have a crisis in the cost of energy for ordinary people who are trying to live. Where is the Government's €100? People need it now. Many people are in trouble today. Why is it not being delivered? Why was this kicked down the road?

This is no longer just affecting certain people; everyone is feeling it. For the first time in over two decades, the cost of living is going through the roof. However, what is really worrying is that the penny is only dropping now and the Government is still not taking the action needed. People have been feeling this for months. The Government ignores our calls, ignores people and ignores the bills that are going through the roof. Sinn Féin wants to bring forward credible solutions. We want to help people through this crisis. The first thing that should happen is a rent freeze.

This week, I was contacted by a lady who is worried about her electricity being cut off. Will the Government allow people's electricity to be cut off at this time of year? It is wrong. It is finally time for the Government to stand up and realise that this is a crisis and that it needs to act now.

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