CSO: Almost three times more people unable to afford basics than in 2008

The rate of deprivation has been increasing steadily since the crash, with nearly one in three people feeling deprived in 2013, according to the Central Statistics Office.

CSO figures show that 30.5% of people experienced 'enforced deprivation' - up from 26.9% in 2012.

However the figure is most striking when compared to deprivation levels in 2008, when 13.7% were classed as deprived.

Indicators of deprivation include being unable to afford heat, replacing worn furniture or social activities.

CSO statistician Patrick Foley says people feel they cannot afford basics, and that is driving up poverty rates.

He said: "What people are saying is that 'I can't buy this', whether it is worn-out furniture or evenings out with friends, that is what is driving the increase in consistent poverty.

"For 2013, there is a big increase in those reporting 'unable to heat the house' some time in the last year because they couldn't afford it."

You can the report in full here.