Taoiseach Confirms New Child Benefit Scheme to Combat Poverty

UPDATE: In a significant announcement today, Taoiseach Micheál Martin has confirmed that a new scheme akin to a second tier of child benefit will be included in the upcoming Budget 2026. This decision follows a report from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), which indicates that means-tested child benefits are the most effective way to reduce child poverty.

During a press briefing at the Child Poverty Summit held at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Martin stated, “I’m working on that,” referring to the potential introduction of the new benefits. He emphasized the urgency of the matter, saying, “The key objective is to reduce child poverty over the next number of years.” This initiative aims to prioritize financial support for vulnerable families and children who need it most.

Martin disclosed that discussions have already taken place with the Minister for Social Protection and his team regarding the complexities of implementing such a system. “We don’t want anyone to lose out,” he added, highlighting potential adjustments needed to existing welfare payments that benefit families.

The announcement arrives on the heels of the government’s new target to reduce child poverty to 3% by the end of the decade, a goal that will direct cross-Government policies and ensure that investments are focused on families in need. The Central Statistics Office (CSO) recently reported a troubling 8.5% consistent poverty rate among children, underscoring the urgency of the proposed reforms.

As discussions progress, families across Ireland are keenly awaiting further details on how this new benefit system will roll out and what specific measures will be taken to alleviate child poverty. The Taoiseach’s commitment to prioritizing this issue signals a pivotal moment for social welfare strategies in Ireland.

Stay tuned for more developments as the government prepares to unveil its full budget plans. The impact of these changes could be profound, reshaping the landscape of child welfare in Ireland for years to come.