Written answers

Wednesday, 6 May 2015

Department of Social Protection

Anti-Poverty Strategy

Photo of Aengus Ó SnodaighAengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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12. To ask the Minister for Social Protection in view of the fact that Ireland is behind on European Union poverty reduction targets, the measures her Department will take to close this gap by the end of the term of this Government. [17320/15]

Photo of Joan BurtonJoan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The Irish contribution to Europe 2020 poverty target is to reduce by a minimum of 200,000 the population in 'combined poverty' (i.e. either consistent poverty, at-risk-of-poverty or basic deprivation) between 2010 and 2020.

In 2013, the at-risk-of-poverty rate fell from 16.5% to 15.2%, the first reduction in three years. In comparative terms, Ireland is below the EU average and ranks 8thlowest of the 28 EU member states.

A key reason for Ireland's low rate of income poverty is the redistributive impact of social transfers. In 2013, social transfers lifted almost a quarter of the population out of at-risk-of-poverty. Ireland is among the best performing EU member states in its policy efforts to alleviate poverty according to Eurostat data.

In Budget 2015, the Government provided an additional €160 million for welfare measures to support families and the most vulnerable. A social impact assessment of the Budget, including the water charges, found that for the first time since the economic crisis, welfare and income tax policy will result in an increase in average household incomes of 0.7% (equivalent of almost €6 per week).

Growing employment and providing the supports needed through activation to get people back to work will have a direct impact on poverty. Through Pathways to Work and the Action Plan on Jobs, the Government is putting people into real jobs. I am confident that Government policies, as set out in the Spring Economic Statement, will continue to improve income and living standards.

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