Calls to increase social welfare by €25 per week ahead of Budget 2026

Could we see an increase in social welfare payments

As families continue to struggle with the cost of living crisis, the organisation believes boosting welfare payments will make a difference.

With recent reports claiming 630,000 people are now living below the poverty line, Social Justice Ireland has called on the Government to increase weekly social welfare payments by €25.

The organisation has called on the Government to improve social infrastructure ahead of Budget 2026.

CEO John McGeady stated:

"Changes to the global economy and trading uncertainty regarding trading conditions are the backdrop to Budget 2026. 

"What is certain, is that Government, in its first budget, should prioritise investment in social infrastructure and the protection of vulnerable groups to deliver the progressive budget that it has committed to in the Programme for Government."

"We are wealthier than at any time in our history, and yet almost 630,000 people are living below the poverty line, 190,000 of whom are children. Almost 16,000 people are in emergency homeless accommodation."

Social Justice Ireland Research and Policy Analyst Susanne Rogers believes a €25 increase is key.

"Minimum social welfare rates must increase by €25 per week in the budget," she said.

Rogers says this increase will benchmark welfare rates to average earnings.

It will support those households most impacted by persistent high prices. 

Rogers added, "Even with falling rates of inflation, prices will remain high, placing real pressures on household budgets."

Social Justice Ireland's call comes after reports revealed plans to boost child benefit for those with three or more children.

Budget talks now include a new plan for increased child benefits for families with three or more children.

The Government is considering introducing a top-up child benefit rate for the third and subsequent children.