Kilkenny Senator Critiques Budget 2026 for Lacking Support

Senator Patricia Stephenson, representing Kilkenny, has condemned the recent decisions made by the Government regarding Budget 2026. Her critique centers on the absence of adequate support for individuals with disabilities and families, while also drawing attention to a tax cut for the hospitality sector that is expected to benefit large fast-food corporations.

In her remarks, Senator Stephenson described the budget as “a Budget for developers and fast-food chains at the expense of families, carers, and the disabled.” She highlighted that disability rights organizations have reported potential income reductions of up to €1,400 for disabled individuals as a consequence of the proposed measures. “For disabled people, this Budget is another blow. Supports have been quietly stripped back, and there’s still no increase in wage subsidies for disabled workers,” she stated.

The senator also expressed concern for families facing financial strain, calling the budget a collection of “broken promises.” She pointed specifically to the ongoing cap on childcare costs, which continues to place a significant burden on many families, particularly affecting women who are unable to work due to inadequate childcare options or prohibitive costs.

Criticism of VAT Cuts and Corporate Priorities

A significant point of contention within the new budget is the reduction of VAT for restaurants and property developers. Labour TD Ged Nash criticized this move, labelling it “a Budget for burger barons and big builders.” Senator Stephenson emphasized that these tax cuts are starkly incongruous with the pressing issues facing many families, particularly in light of the housing and cost of living crises.

“Currently, we have 200,000 children living in poverty and more than 5,000 individuals experiencing homelessness. Instead of addressing this crisis, the government has chosen to prioritize corporate developers and multinational food chains. It’s hard to imagine clearer evidence of where their priorities lie,” she asserted.

Senator Stephenson argued that the government missed an opportunity to provide targeted support for local cafés, which are vital for rural communities, rather than implementing blanket policies that primarily benefit large multinationals. “The Social Democrats believe a fair Budget should make life better for those who need help most, not help developers get richer. This Government had a chance to show vision and compassion. Instead, it has chosen the status quo,” she concluded.

The senator’s comments reflect a growing discontent among various political factions regarding the government’s budgetary priorities and their potential impact on vulnerable populations.