SVP warn of cuts to social welfare rates

The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul is warning that any cuts to social welfare rates will push more people into poverty.

In its pre-budget submission, the Society said it accepts savings have to be made, but it said revenue raising must be done in a fair way.

The charity agency also said there has been an average increase of 35% in the number of people seeking its help - compared with 2009.

Vice President John Monaghan said protecting basic social welfare in the budget is crucial.

"While we may not be economists, we are experts on poverty and misery because we see it every night of the week," he said.

"People on welfare simply have nothing more to give. So there can be no cuts because if you do, the consequence will be more people pushed into poverty."