SVP calls for minimum €130 social welfare payment

The Society of St. Vincent De Paul has urged the Government to introduce a minimum of €130 as the lowest social welfare rate.

They also want the removal of all those on the minimum wage from the tax net.

In its annual report, published today, the society reveals that it spent €21m fighting poverty in society in the nine months to the end of December last.

National President Brian O'Reilly has said that the onus is now on the Government ahead of next week's budget to protect the most needy and vulnerable.

He said that €11.50 is not a major increase for people on social welfare.

"We recognise that there are 400,000 children in Ireland still receiving the child dependant allowance," he said.

"We would like to see that increased to €25 per child. Also, we feel that the minimum wage must be taken out of the tax band."