Budget 2025: Pensioners and carers set to be big winners as negotiations continue
Be On Set Picture: Delivered Pa Is Budget The To Tuesday
Pensioners and carers are set to be the big winners in Budget 2025 as government negotiations continue.
Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys has indicated that the two groups, along with people with disabilities, can expect a boost in social welfare rates.
She has stated that there will be a "strong package" to support carers, people with disabilities, older people and working families.
"I do expect that there will be an increase in the social welfare rates and I think that it's important that we support our older people," Ms Humphreys said.
"They have worked hard all their lives and they have contributed to our economy. They have contributed hugely to it and I really do not want to see any old person afraid to turn on the heat."
It is understood the Fine Gael TD had been pushing for a €15 increase on welfare rates but it is expected the final rate could be between €10 and €12.
Speaking on RTÉ Radio 1's , she said targeted measures such as the fuel allowance and living alone allowance will also be looked at.
Ms Humphreys downplayed talk of disagreement within the coalition but reiterated her position that with the country at full employment, those in receipt of jobseekers' allowance should not see their payments increase in line with other weekly payments.
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"The pot is limited and, for me, I have to prioritise the groups with the greatest needs," she said. "So if everyone gets the same then there is less for other measures."
Why would you give the same payment to the long-term unemployed when businesses are "crying out" for workers and there are already supports to help those people get back to work? she asked.
"We have carers in the country that are working 24/7. There are people with severe disabilities who genuinely cannot work and there are old age pensioners who have already worked hard all their lives," Ms Humphreys said.
However, it appears that the minister has lost this battle despite insisting that the decision has yet to be made.
Meanwhile, parents will receive a double child benefit payment ahead of Christmas but rates are unlikely to be increased.
"Rate increases are expensive. One euro of an increase in weekly payment costs about €80m, €10 on weekly payments costs €800m and a €15 increase would cost €1.2bn," she said, adding that any targeted measures are contingent on the rate increases.
In terms of cost of living, Ms Humphreys said she expects a strong package to be paid this side of Christmas, once again emphasising the need to support older people, carers and those with a disability.
You can read our full coverage of Budget 2025 here.