Darragh's Soapbox: Are you happy with the Budget?

At a glance, the key points from this year's Budget include a social protection package worth almost €2 billion, a cost-of-living package worth €2.2 billion, double payments of child benefit in November and December, and expanding the free schoolbooks initiative to transition and senior cycle pupils.

Meanwhile, the Universal Social Charge rate will see a second consecutive reduction and the national minimum wage will increase by 80 cent to €13.50 per hour from January 1, 2025.

Locals spoke to the Waterford News & Star this week to offer their opinion on this year’s Budget.

John said: “It’s all the same as every year, but there were some good things in it at the same time. I think people are mad that money is still being wasted, just last week there was the bike shed issue in Dublin, and now this week the Budget came out. A lot of money gets wasted."

His friend John added, “In the Budget they give you something with one hand and they take it back with the other."

Keith Whelan and Liam Lannigan spoke on the cost of living. 

Keith commented: “The cost of living is more difficult for some people than it is for others. If you’re living on your own it can be slightly harder, and I think too much money is going to the wrong places in the Budget.” 

Local George Back spoke on the rise in the home carer tax credit and single person child carer credit.
"I’m a carer and I think carers don't get paid enough for the work they do," he said, "It's one of the most important jobs you could have so I’m glad the government have looked at it in this Budget. 

"It’s a small rise, but it will be helpful and I’m glad carers are recognised."

George added that not enough has been done for younger people: “Most people who are in college still can’t afford accommodation and they are emigrating. I think the Budget didn’t do enough this year to help with that."