SVP: Proposed cuts could increase poverty

The Society of St Vincent de Paul says it is deeply concerned that some of the public spending cutbacks proposed yesterday could push thousands of people into poverty.

An Bord Snip Nua has recommended that all welfare payments be cut by 5% as part of efforts to plug the massive black hole in the public finances.

It also says child-benefit payments should be significantly reduced, while medical card eligibility should be restricted and medical card holders should have to pay €5 to get a prescription filled.

The cuts are likely to be among of the most distasteful adjustments that the Government will be considering between now and December's budget.

They are also likely to be among the easiest to implement in the short term.

However, St Vincent de Paul says it has major concerns that the reductions could increase poverty among children and the elderly in particular.