Government must introduce a Spring Bonus for social welfare – Browne

Sinn Féin TD for Tipperary, Martin Browne, has urged the government to introduce a Spring Bonus for people in Tipperary relying on working age social welfare payments, including pensioners, people with disabilities, workers, carers and lone parents.

This would provide much-needed support to hard-pressed households struggling with the cost of living crisis, along with additional necessary measures the party has outlined. Teachta Browne said:

“The cost of living is sky high and households in Tipperary are struggling with record energy bills, rising food costs and increased mortgage repayments all putting huge pressure on their finances. Everyday I hear from local people who need help now to keep up with these costs.

"Sinn Féin are calling on the government to commit to the payment of a ‘Spring Bonus’ for those relying on working age social welfare payments including pensioners, people with disabilities, workers, carers and lone parents. This would make a real difference to so many people in here in Tipperary.

“The government has been flying kites about introducing possible measures next week. However, we know from past experience that when this government acts they do too little, too late. We need to see the government deliver for people in Tipperary who need support now.

"Almost 595,000 people, 11.6%, in this state now live on incomes below the poverty line, while the latest Barnardos report shows that food poverty is worsening with 10% of parents forced to use food banks in 2022 and 29% reported skipping meals to ensure their children could eat.

"Average gas bills have gone up by around 140% over the past two years, while the average electricity bill has increased by around 115%. The ESRI estimates households in energy poverty have increased to 29%; a record high.

“A Spring Bonus would provide a lifeline to people in Tipperary who need it, along with additional cost of living proposals that Sinn Féin have outlined. Our package of measures would make a real difference for hard pressed families who cannot be expected to keep waiting for the government to get their act together. The government must ensure that this support is delivered without delay.”