- CPI increases in basic goods and services -
Fianna Fáil Seanad Spokesperson on Social Protection, Senator Catherine Ardagh has said that many low income families have felt little or no recovery in their own personal economic circumstances.
The latest CSO Consumer Price Index shows that low income families throughout Ireland are still struggling to afford essential goods and services.
Senator Ardagh commented, “While prices on average, as measured by the CPI, were 0.1% lower in November compared with November 2015, a more detailed analysis shows that the cost of several essential items rose considerably during the same period.”
“The CPI also revealed that local authority rents rose on average by 3.9%, while secondary education costs rose by 2.7% and with rail travel costs rising by a further 2.1%. In addition, essentials such as house and car insurance rose by 7.6% and 11.6 respectively.
“For families, up and down the country, they are essential goods and services,” said the Dublin 12 based Senator.
“The modest gains, which Fianna Fáil fought hard for, will be swallowed up by these increases in everyday, basic items. For thousands of low-income families, 2017 will be yet another year where they struggle to balance the books.”
“Ireland has some quite staggering poverty and deprivation statistics. 59% of lone parent households are currently experiencing deprivation while 8% of the population is living in consistent poverty.
“Many low income families have not felt or experienced any sort economic recovery; they are living hand to mouth on a weekly basis and are faced with ever increasing costs for essential goods and services. The Government must step up and do more,” concluded Ardagh.
-ENDS-
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