Fine words won’t butter bread

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore’s heartfelt speech at the Labour Party Conference reflected the harsh and extreme reality endured by many Irish households. But the time for emotive language and patriotism has long since passed.

Counting coins and raiding every possible stowaway is all too familiar for those struggling to pay the bills and make ends meet. How can we afford diesel, milk, bread, ham, and butter?

Chances are you don’t know me or some of the problems my family face on a regular basis. I put on a brave front or a false smile, but inside I’m hurting. I’m angry, but do not hate; sorry, but blessed and grateful. I have the clothes on my back, a roof over my head, and enough food to get me through the day.