Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

Last week, the Taoiseach disregarded the research of Barnardos that stated 10% of families were using food banks. He seems to be disregarding the research of the ESRI as well. Less than a year ago, it published a report showing how the Government's poverty target could be achieved with a focus on the working family payment and the qualified child increase. Why, then, were these benefits only given a cursory glance in the budget and totally ignored in this week's cost-of-living package? I am sure the Taoiseach is going to tell me about the child benefit payment announcement this week and the back-to-school payment, but the ESRI research shows child benefit is one of the least effective ways to reduce poverty precisely because it is universal. While free books and school meals are very welcome, they will not affect the poverty rate, as that is measured by income. The Government says it has grand ambitions around poverty, but as the saying goes, show me how you spend your money and I will show you your priorities. Why are these key payments still being ignored?

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