Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

The discussion in the Joint Committee on Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth of child poverty was quite harrowing. We heard how the lack of supports for lone parents was a major driver of deprivation. Exorbitant childcare costs mean it is more economic for parents in many families to stop working or reduce their working hours. It is primarily the mother who does so. For one-parent families, this leaves them no choice but to limit their employment altogether. This cohort, which is primarily composed of younger women, needs more tailored support. Instead, at the moment they are being overlooked.

At the committee, groups like the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and One Family highlighted issues concerning the cliff edge for working lone parents due to the arbitrary cut-off for the jobseeker's transition payment. Education pathways and grants can be equally restrictive. I recognise 100% that many of these issues relate to Departments other than the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, but it is children who ultimately suffer. What steps can the Minister take to support lone-parent families in the unique challenges that they face?

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