Government nearing decision on cost-of-living measures 'within days'

Both Taoiseach and Tánaiste signal supports are coming following weeks of ministers mulling over any financial assistance in the wake of the Iran war

Taoiseach Micheal Martin, at the Willard Intercontinental Hotel in Washington DC, appeared to indicate there were measures on the horizon, but declined to set out what the Government would do.

The Government will attempt to make the “best possible decisions” in the “coming days” amid rising pressure about the cost of living, Tánaiste Simon Harris has said.

While both the Tánaiste and Taoiseach Micheál Martin refused to confirm what exact measures, if any, will be taken, both spoke about the importance of “targeting” help to those most in need.

Mr Harris was speaking in London following meetings with the UK deputy prime minister David Lammy and chancellor of the exchequer Rachel Reeves.

Speaking to reporters outside 11 Downing Street, Mr Harris said a decision on whether measures will be implemented will be taken in the coming days. On Sunday, he said there would be a decision by the end of March.

He was speaking just hours after UK prime minister Keir Starmer announced a £53m support package to help those impacted by the cost of soaring heating oil.

“What I have said in the past, and what the Taoiseach has said in the past few days too, is that fuel allowance is a very effective way of helping older people, helping people most at risk of fuel poverty,” Mr Harris said.

“The fuel allowance season is still ongoing, but that is due to end at the start of April. That is an area that we know does directly assist people.

“Excise is an area in the past that has been used to assist people, including during the Ukraine crisis. There's a whole variety of areas that can be considered.

“We are actively working on this across government. We will bottom this out in the coming days to make the best possible decisions.”

Mr Harris said he would not speculate on what measures could be taken but reiterated that both he and the Taoiseach had referenced both fuel allowance as a targeted measure and excise as a measure that “has been done in the past”.

In Washington DC, Mr Martin also appeared to indicate there were measures on the horizon, but declined to set out what the Government would do.

“I’m always a believer in, if you’re doing something, prepare it properly. Announce it when it’s ready,” Mr Martin said.

He cited the need to help people in need, but also to ensure the economy is protected from possible inflationary pressures.

The Taoiseach added the Government needed to look at both the short-term impact, but also the medium-term and how it might impact on Ireland’s next budget.

Meanwhile, the Tánaiste welcomed the resetting of British and Irish relations as he concluded his two-day trip to London on Monday evening.