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

I agree regarding the wider cost of disability highlighted in the Indecon report. We know from the Department's report that additional costs faced by individuals with disabilities range from €8,700 to €12,300 annually, on average. We also know that nearly 40% of those not working due to disability are at risk of poverty. That figure is three times higher than the general population. While all families are facing a cost-of-living crisis, it is being experienced more acutely by disabled people, given that they face additional costs. With the PUP, the Government established that €350 is the rate of payment that individuals should receive, yet disability allowance remains only a fraction of that at €208. Our motion last week, which the Government agreed to, called for at least a €15 increase in the disability allowance. The Minister mentioned an increase in the core rates. What increase is she looking at for the next budget? Will she answer my first question on the cost of disability rate, which is separate to the core rates of the social welfare allowance?

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