No relief in sight for households as Taoiseach rules out specific cost-of-living package in next Budget

"Taoiseach Micheál Martin stated that no specific cost-of-living package will be issued before the upcoming Budget, emphasizing a more targeted approach to inflation."

"The inflation rate has dropped to 2.2pc, significantly lower than previous levels influenced by global crises, enabling a discussion on more sustainable public financial measures."

"Mr Martin mentioned that past measures were among the most generous in Europe and advocated for accountability in managing public expenditure as a priority."

"The government prioritizes addressing key issues like disability support and child poverty while focusing on broad measures that will assist the general public in adjusting to inflation."

The consumer price index saw a 2.2% increase year-on-year by April, largely due to escalating grocery prices and insurance costs. Taoiseach Micheál Martin warned against the expectation of universal financial relief in light of this inflation and hinted at potential curtailments of public services in the next Budget. He confirmed that while specific cost-of-living packages are ruled out, targeted measures, particularly for disability and child poverty, will be prioritized as part of ongoing fiscal policy adjustments aimed at ensuring public welfare amidst rising costs.

Read at Irish Independent