Deputy Michael Lowry is welcoming the increase in the Carer’s Support Grant to €2,000, the weekly rise in core social welfare payments, higher tax thresholds, the extension of mortgage interest relief, changes to Capital Gains Tax, the increase to the R&D tax credit, and support for Irish family businesses.
The TD says Budget 2025 has made some progress towards the abolition of the Carer’s Allowance means test by raising the income disregard – the TD had sought the removal of the means test completely as it means the some carers will not benefit from the increased benefits available.
The TD is repeating his concern that Under the current means-tested system, many carers are left financially vulnerable.
Deputy Lowry describes the decision to maintain the VAT rate for the hospitality sector at 13.5% as a failure by the Government to support local restaurants, cafés, and pubs.
The Government also failed to introduce a cost of disability payment to ensure that people with disabilities enjoy the same standard of living as non-disabled people.
The regional group say they wanted a different approach in the budget with an integrated strategy with clear goals, meticulous execution, and strong accountability measures.
