A new government with the same old excuses

IN Budget 2009 and again in Budget 2010 a number of austerity measures were introduced.

These included the withdrawal of the Christmas bonus to all social welfare recipients. There was no increase in the old age pension.

All Social Welfare payments were cut in both budgets. This included the blind, the widows, the disabled, carers, etc.

But not to worry. It saved money, and that money is being put to good use. If helps to finance banks and enables them to pay large bonuses to the very people who near ruined the banking system.

A greater cause for joy for those on social welfare is the fact that the money which was taken from them will be used to provide security and entertainment for the English queen and the President of the United States of America.

We in Ireland have our priorities right. Our new government has the same excuses: “We can’t do anything about it ... the Attorney General advises ...”

Pádraig Ua Corbaidg

Cill Na Seanrátha

Co An Chabháin