Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy. I will outline what we are doing to support people with the cost of living, which we know continues to be a significant issue and problem for many, even when the price growth we have had to deal with for many years is slowing. What has the Government done to respond to the needs we know are there? We are rolling out the free hot school meals system and making free GP care available for under-eights. We have rolled out a free schoolbooks scheme in primary schools across the country and the Minister for Education and Youth is now looking to roll out free schoolbooks across secondary schools. The back-to-school clothing and footwear allowance will be available before the summer. We have rolled out a summer school meals programme. Action has been taken to reduce the PSO obligation in respect of renewable energy. Eligibility for the fuel allowance has been expanded so that thousands more people, particularly older people, are able to qualify for the scheme. We know the cost of living continues to be an issue for many. These are the actions the Government has taken. We need to ensure that the actions we take in the time ahead are affordable and permanent and that we can build upon them. That is why these important decisions need to be made on budget day.

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