Budget will ‘help support working families, carers and communities' says Tipperary TD

TIPPERARY LIVE'S BUDGET 2026 COVERAGE IS SPONSORED BY PREMIER CREDIT UNION

Tipperary North TD Michael Lowry has welcomed the announcement of Budget 2026, describing it as a strong step towards delivering key commitments in the Programme for Government, particularly in supporting carers, lower-income families, people with disabilities, and local communities.

Recognising the invaluable contribution of carers was a central issue for Independents when forming a Government earlier this year.

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With a major increase in the income disregard for Carers Allowance — rising from €375 to €1,000 for a single person, and from €750 to €2,000 for couples — this represents meaningful progress in abolishing the means test over the lifetime of this government.

“I have raised the vital role of Carers on numerous occasions in the Dáil and emphasised the vital role they play. I have advocated consistently for improvements in income for them and am happy to see this recognised in today’s Budget.

“Thresholds for Working Family Payments will increase by €60 per week, giving more hard-working people in Tipperary and NW Kilkenny access to supports. In addition, those in receipt of this payment will now automatically qualify for the Fuel Allowance, giving families further security as they face rising costs.

“In an important measure to help those who continue to face higher mortgage repayments, this Budget has extended the Mortgage Interest relief scheme for a further two years.

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“The reduction of the VAT rate for the hospitality sector to 9% will also help keep rural and regional communities vibrant, supporting local jobs and small businesses. This is critical to restaurants and pub – we have seen an alarming number of closures across the Constituency and the country as a whole. Without this lifeline many more would be forced to close their doors over the coming months,” said Deputy Lowry.

“This Budget commits to significant Capital Investment in key infrastructure projects and provisions to boost the housing supply, recognising that building homes is central to meeting the country’s long-term needs.

“Using the ESRI SWITCH tax-benefit model, the data shows that this Budget delivers the greatest benefits to lower-income families. It marks a shift away from one-off payments and focuses instead on targeted, sustainable measures that support those most in need, while also strengthening the economy,” concluded Deputy Lowry.