Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

This week the Government made a welcome announcement about back-to-school footwear and clothing and, indeed, school transport. However, there is an ever-expanding cohort of people who are the new working poor. They pay for everything and get nothing. They might be rich on paper, meaning that above all they do not qualify for a medical card or anything else, but with the crippling rise in prices and inflation they are completely devastated. They get no supports. Their children have to go to school, be educated and be clothed. It is a major cohort that is growing very uneasy and are very concerned. They seem to be forgotten by everybody in this House. The Tánaiste said he supports the people who get up early in the morning and work. However, he does not support them, nor does the Government. They are screwed for everything and get nothing.

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