INOU Annual Conference Calls for Enhanced Unemployment Support, Minister Calleary Addresses Delegates

The Irish National Organisation of the Unemployed (INOU) recently convened its annual delegate conference, where participants advocated for increased support for unemployed individuals.

Key motions debated included benchmarking social welfare payments to ensure recipients are lifted above the poverty line, alongside calls for greater investment in education, training, and employment programs. Delegates also urged the Government to implement targeted measures, such as increasing the fuel allowance, to mitigate the impact of rising living costs.

Dara Calleary, the Minister for Social Protection, addressed the conference, emphasizing the INOU's crucial role. «In these times of rapid change to the world of work, with the emergence of AI automation, digital and green transitions and lifelong learning, the INOU is an important partner, working with my department when it comes to developing strategies and policies across the labour market,» he stated. Mr. Calleary further noted that the Government is actively working to enhance service developments across education, skills, training, and employment programs, expressing his expectation that these efforts would be reflected in the forthcoming «Pathways to Work» initiative.

INOU Chairperson Joanne Farrell welcomed both the minister and the delegates, highlighting the necessity of addressing contemporary challenges and opportunities faced by unemployed individuals and those dependent on social welfare supports. Insights gathered from roundtable discussions held during the conference will inform the INOU's 2027 pre-budget submission to the Government.