Families need certainty, not spin on cost of living supports – Bacik

Labour Leader Ivana Bacik TD has said this Government is failing to provide any coherent plan to support families through the cost-of-living crisis. Speaking during Leaders’ Questions, Deputy Bacik challenged the Government on rising household costs, inconsistent Budget signals, and the absence of targeted supports for PAYE workers, warning that families are being left to manage rising bills without meaningful intervention. 

Labour is calling on Government to urgently introduce targeted energy credits, support pay increases, and invest in renewable energy to reduce long-term costs.

Deputy Bacik said:
“Families right across the country are struggling to make ends meet as the cost-of-living crisis continues to deepen. Nearly half a million households are in arrears on their energy bills, grocery prices are rising faster than wages, and many are being forced to rely on credit just to cover basic expenses. Yet this Government continues to offer uncertainty instead of support.

“This Government has failed to deliver a clear and credible plan. Instead, we are seeing a stream of contradictory signals and speculative measures, while the core issues facing working people go unaddressed. Last October’s Budget exposed this failure, with no meaningful investment in renewable energy or universal public childcare, while significant tax breaks were prioritised elsewhere.

“The Taoiseach’s response in the Dáil today was deeply disappointing. He failed to acknowledge the scale of pressure facing ordinary households and offered no concrete plan to support those most affected. Suggesting that existing measures are sufficient simply does not reflect the lived reality of families struggling with rising costs.

“There are clear policy choices available. The evidence is there, including from the ESRI, which has highlighted how reliance on gas continues to drive electricity prices. Other governments have shown what can be done. In Spain, investment in renewable energy has helped stabilise prices and reduce exposure to global shocks. This Government has the capacity to act but has chosen not to.

“Labour is calling for targeted energy credits to support those in arrears, for policies that enable pay rises for workers, and for sustained investment in renewable energy infrastructure, including grid development, battery storage, and solar capacity. These are practical steps that would reduce costs now and protect households into the future.

“Families deserve certainty and support, not mixed messages and delay. Ireland is a wealthy country, but without a clear plan, that wealth is not reaching those who need it most. The Government must act now to support working people and build a more resilient and affordable energy system.”