Irish government pushes for new disability cost payment in upcoming budget

Micheál Martin announced that the government is vigorously pursuing the inclusion of a cost of disability payment in the forthcoming budget, describing it as a key target in budget negotiations. While he did not disclose whether the measure has been approved or its exact value, he said the entire coalition is committed to the initiative. Martin referenced ongoing work with Dara Calleary, Simon Harris and Jack Chambers, despite the social protection minister’s view that the payment may not be ready this year.

The push follows a May Cost of Disability Strategic Focus Network summit that attracted more than 1,000 submissions and earlier protests demanding an emergency €400 payment for disabled people and carers. The government also highlighted broader fiscal measures, such as income-tax cuts and childcare cost reductions, as part of its programme commitments.