Low-income and rural households continue to feel the biggest impact of cost of living crisis. In its Pre-Budget Submission for 2024, IRL are calling for an increase of a minimum of €25 per week in core social welfare rates. This is to ensure that people on social welfare have an adequate income to support their households and afford essential goods and services. IRL are also calling for a 50% increase in fuel allowance; no further increase in excise duty on petrol and diesel; ring-fencing of carbon tax to support households already in or at risk of energy poverty, investment in rural transport and Local Link services, removal of the 3.2km exemption to school transport provision. The full Pre-Budget 2024 and asks is available Here