This year’s Budget will see an extra €7 billion in spending.
Today, Ireland’s Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe delivered Budget 2023 to Dáil Éireann.
Needless to say, the country was eagerly anticipating the Budget, with many hoping that drastic measures would be introduced to help deal with rising costs ahead of winter. This year’s Budget will see an extra €7 billion in spending, while a separate cost-of-living package amounts to €3 billion.
Here are some of the key takeaways from Budget 2023.
Social welfare
Weekly social welfare payments will be increased by €12. A once-off double payment will be paid in October and include pensioners, carers, jobseekers and people on disability payments.
Free GP care
An additional 430,000 people will be eligible for a GP visit card. This will be means-tested and based on income limits.
Contraception
The free contraception plan for women under the age of 25 will be extended to women under 30 by next year.
IVF
Publicly-funded IVF will begin next year.
Hospital waiting lists
A €400 million package aimed at reducing waiting lists for hospitals has been introduced.
Tax relief for renters
Those who rent will receive €500 in tax credits this year.
Energy Payments
Households will receive three energy credits worth a total €600 to help with energy costs.
Schoolbooks for children
All primary school students in the free education system will receive free school textbooks.
Childcare Fees
Weekly childcare fees are to be cut by 25% for those on the National Childcare Scheme. Those working in the sector will receive improved pay.
Child Benefit
An additional child benefit payment will be paid this autumn.
Electricity payments
Every household will receive a €600 payment to help with electricity bills.
Feature image: Sam Boal/RollingNews.ie
