25% of Irish people at risk of poverty

WE are failing to face up to the true extent of poverty in our society, according to a report from EU.

The survey of living standards throughout Europe has revealed that the level of poverty in Ireland is more than twice what people here believe it to be.

Using a yardstick which defines those living in poverty in Ireland as atypical family with a disposable income of less than €232 a week, the survey shows 25% of people areeither at risk of poverty or are deprived of many of the material essentials they need to live.