SVP calls for increased social welfare and fuel allowances

The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul is calling for increases in social welfare payments and fuel allowances in the upcoming budget for 2009.

The organisation says its recognises that the Government is experiencing funding problems, but requests for help from SVP in Dublin alone are up 40% on this time last year.

It says social welfare payments should be increased by €15-a-week, while fuel allowances should be increased by €12-a-week.