Government not doing enough to ease cost of living, says Ó Broin

The Government has been called on to “step up” its response to the cost of living by introducing additional easing measures.

Sinn Féin TD for Dublin Mid West, Eoin Ó Broin says that his party will be putting forward a special motion in the Dail this evening with proposals “to help tackle the crisis.”

These plans include a cost of living cash payment of €200 for people on low incomes and a further reduction in excise duty on petrol and diesel.

Speaking today, Deputy Ó Broin said: “We are looking at increasing numbers of families facing fuel poverty as costs continue to soar across the country for workers and families.

“The measures the government have put forward are simply not enough to tackle the ongoing cost of living crisis.

“Our motion puts forward clear and deliverable ways in which families could get urgent support now.

“We are calling on the Government to establish a Discretionary Fund to support households who are struggling with utilities debt,” he said.

“Furthermore, the Fuel Allowance should be extended to those in receipt of the Working Family Payment, which is a payment provided to low-income working households.

“We also are re-iterating our call to reverse the planned carbon tax increase that is set to come into effect in May.

“Right now, people cannot afford costs to rise any further. This would be the most obvious measure the government could take.

“It is essential that government takes action on these spiralling costs now, we need a response that reflects the severity of this crisis and its impact on ordinary people.”