Budget 2026 Unveiled: Little Relief for Households, Says Doherty

UPDATE: The newly announced Budget 2026 has drawn sharp criticism from Sinn Féin’s Finance Spokesperson, Pearse Doherty, who claims it offers no real benefits for average households. Just hours after Ministers Paschal Donohoe and Jack Chambers delivered their budget speeches, the fallout is immediate.

The budget includes a modest increase of €10 per week in core welfare rates but fails to introduce any substantial income tax package. The only adjustment is a slight modification to the Universal Social Charge (USC) to account for a €0.65 hourly rise in the minimum wage. This lack of comprehensive tax relief is expected to leave many families struggling as costs continue to rise.

In a significant move, the VAT rate for gas and electricity has been extended to 9% until the end of 2030. However, this is overshadowed by an increase in carbon taxes on car fuel, which takes effect tonight. Notably, there are no energy credits available this year, leaving many households to shoulder higher energy costs without additional support.

Despite no reductions in childcare costs, the government has committed to funding extra places through construction projects. Additionally, the VAT rate for new apartment sales has been cut, alongside the introduction of a new Derelict Property Tax.

The budget also extends the bank levy and offers the back-to-school clothing allowance to children aged two and three. A Christmas bonus will be paid to recipients of social welfare, but the cost of living continues to rise, as students face increased fees compared to last year. The student fee rate has been permanently reduced to €2,500, yet many are questioning its sufficiency against inflation.

Doherty expressed his discontent, stating that the speeches from Donohoe and Chambers were “dripping with arrogance” and offered nothing meaningful for ordinary families.

As families brace for the economic impact of this budget, the immediate question remains: what will be done to address the growing financial strain on households?

The government’s next steps will be closely monitored as citizens await potential adjustments or supplementary measures to alleviate the burdensome costs that many are facing.

Stay tuned for continuing updates on Budget 2026 and its implications for households across the nation.