SVP criticises Government's 'piecemeal' approach to battling poverty

Teresa Ryan, national president of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, said: 'I remember a time when I could get shopping for a big family under €100. Now it’s €200. It’s phenomenal, the cost of living now.' Photo: Chris Bellew / Fennell Photography

The Government has been criticised for a “piecemeal” approach to tackling poverty in Ireland, as the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) issued its annual appeal for help to support struggling families this Christmas.

The charity’s national president Teresa Ryan said it has seen calls rise 7% in the year to October and the charity expects to receive 250,000 calls to its helpline seeking support overall this year.