Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for coming to the House to discuss this very important topic. Budget day affects every household in the country. The Minister, Deputy Michael McGrath's opening speech today was about the fact that there are 2.6 million people at work. I want to acknowledge that. He also referred to the fact that inflation, while in some ways it can be good, affects the lives of all of us. That is why this is a €12 billion cost-of-living package, which I acknowledge. It is really important that we support people.

There is €5.3 billion in terms of core expenditure and a tax package of €1.6 billion. The once-off cost-of-living measures of €2.7 billion are really important. There is something there for all levels of households, which is really important. People are finding it difficult. Three energy credits were announced today, which I am delighted with because it is something I have been seeking for quite a while. It is less than what it was last year, but the cost of energy has started to come down. The Government had to look at it in a prudent matter. It will help families in terms of that support, however. The 9% reduced VAT rate on gas and electricity is to stay in place for a further 12 months, which is most welcome.

The rent-to-buy scheme is staying in place until 2025. I welcome the fact that people who may be on the council list or in affordable housing can avail of this as well. From the figures I heard today, certainly, more than 7,000 social houses have started already this year. Going by all the figures, we are going to exceed the target of 29,000 homes, which is most welcome. Some 400 families are being helped each week in terms of the rent-to-buy scheme. They are significant figures.

There is funding towards climate change in terms of solar panels. People were afraid that money was going to run out if they wanted to buy an electric car, which the Government is encouraging people to do. The VAT rate on solar panels will be at 0%, which is really welcome.

There is €250 billion in terms of enterprise supports for small and medium-sized businesses, the inner workings of which has to be worked out with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. We need to look at small and medium enterprises especially, because many of those in the hospitality industry have still not recovered.The minimum wage has increased and small businesses will have to sustain many other costs. They need to be the target of the business and enterprise fund. It is most welcome that €250 million has been allocated to it. In my area, County Limerick, we have Troy Studios. The section 481 film tax credit is most welcome but I also want the regional uplift to be looked at for areas that are starting off in film and might not be as established as others. It encouraged companies to come from abroad, including from America, as well as the main film producers across Europe. When the regional uplift was in place they were able to do business a little more efficiently as they had a tax credit. It encouraged long-term filming. I would like it to be looked at.

On insurance, I compliment the Minister of State personally, as it is an area she has taken a great interest in. I welcome the fact we will see reductions. I hope brokers and insurance companies will pass them on to clients.

I am almost of out time but on social welfare, I welcome the income disregard for carers. I have worked with carers on it for quite some time. People who are medically certified as not being able to drive will have free travel. That is welcome news. Many people cannot drive for various reasons because of a difficulty they have.