October budget to feature cost-of-living package, says Taoiseach

Taoiseach Simon Harris said it is important Budget 2025 features a cost-of-living package as people are 'still financially hurting'. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

The October budget will include a new cost-of-living package that will help families and householders this year, the Taoiseach has said.

Simon Harris said it is important Budget 2025 features a cost-of-living package as people are “still financially hurting”.

Speaking at Government Buildings, Mr Harris said the Government is looking at measures to help people “in the here and now”.

People are still financially hurting

“In relation to the Budget, yes, there will be a cost-of-living package this calendar year,” he added.

“I think it’s very important that there is one. People are still financially hurting.

“While we can point to many indicators that show that inflation is very significantly reducing, it’s entirely true, it doesn’t take away from the fact that that hasn’t been felt yet at homes, businesses, farms, right across Ireland.

Mr Harris said the Government is looking at measures to help people ‘in the here and now’ (Brian Lawless/PA)

“Therefore, I do think it’s important that we look at a time when the country is doing economically well, and what more practical measures we can take to help people in the here and now.

“Obviously, the composition of the package, the size of it, and all of that will be a matter for engagement across government, and will be announced on Budget Day, on the first of October.”

Lump sum payments in the last two budgets have proved popular among householders, which included fuel allowances and double payments for child benefit.