Sinn Féin TD for Cavan-Monaghan Deputy Pauline Tully has urged the Government to introduce a Spring Bonus for people in Cavan, Monaghan and north Meath who are relying on working wage social welfare payments, including pensioners, people with disabilities, workers, carers and lone parents.
She said the move would provide much-needed support to hard-pressed households struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.
The local TD highlighted how households across Cavan, Monaghan and north Meath are struggling with record energy bills, rising food costs and increased mortgage repayments - all of which is putting huge pressure on their finances.
Deputy Tully said a Spring Bonus would make "a real difference" to so many people in this region.
She added that 11.6% of people in Ireland now live on incomes below the poverty line; 10% of parents were forced to use food banks in 2022; and 29% reported skipping meals to ensure their children could eat.
"Average gas bills have gone up by around 140% over the past two years, while the average electricity bill has increased by around 115%. The ESRI estimates households in energy poverty have increased to 29% - a record high. "The Government has been flying kites about introducing possible measures next week. However, we know from past experience that when this government acts, they do too little, too late. We need to see the Government deliver for people in Cavan, Monaghan and north Meath who need support now. "A Spring Bonus would provide a lifeline to people in Cavan, Monaghan and north Meath - who need it - along with additional cost of living proposals that Sinn Féin have outlined. Our package of measures would make a real
difference for hard pressed families who cannot be expected to keep waiting
for the Government to get its act together," said Deputy Tully. The Government must ensure that this support is delivered without delay," Deputy Tully said.
