Snips cuts 'frightening': SVP

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP) says it is "shocked" by the report from An Bord Snip Nua, recommending €1.8bn worth of cuts in social welfare expenditure.

The proposed cuts include a 5% reduction across the board in welfare payments.

"We are shocked at the extent of the proposed cuts on the most vulnerable in Irish society", said Mairead Bushnell, SVP National President.

"It is not just the proposed cuts in social welfare that is a shock, but the combined effect when added to the cuts proposed in areas of health, education and transport is frightening. The effect on those living in disadvantaged areas and rural Ireland will be particularly severe."