Call for social welfare "Spring bonus"

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Social Protection and Roscommon native, Claire Kerrane TD, has urged the government to introduce a Spring Bonus for those relying on working age social welfare payments, including pensioners, people with disabilities, workers, carers and lone parents.

She said 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.

“The cost of living is sky high and households are struggling with record energy bills, rising food costs and increased mortgage repayments all putting huge pressure on their pockets" said Deputy Kirrane "Sinn Féin is calling on the government to commit to the payment of a ‘Spring Bonus’ for those relying on working age social welfare payments."

The Roscommon Galway TD said the government has been "flying kites" about introducing possible measures but added that "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 who need support now."

She also pointed out that average gas bills have gone up by "around 140% over the past two years" while the average electricity bill has increased "by around 115%" and the ESRI estimates households in energy poverty have increased to a record high of 29%.

“A Spring Bonus would provide a lifeline to people 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 measure is delivered without delay.”