'I was disappointed': Young worker had hoped for more in budget

Non-EU workers and students living in Ireland for three months or longer are required to register for an Irish Residence Permit card, which costs €300, much more than in other countries

Imasha Costa: 'I had hoped for a €1,000 rental tax credit and three €200 energy rebates. I had hoped for a larger reduction in the Universal Social Charge and to not see an extra 75c on the price of cigarettes.' Picture: Larry Cummins

€850 in tax credits, €450 in energy rebates and a pouch of 30g tobacco will now cost me €23.65, that is what I, a young migrant worker in Ireland will receive from Budget 2024 this year.

At 23, I did not think I would have to worry too much about the cost of living. But the bills add up quickly - rent, food, electricity, visa and work permit costs as well as private health insurance that I must have as part of my visa requirements in Ireland.