Taoiseach Micheál Martin Calls New Disability Payment «Complex» Amid Sinn Féin Demands

Taoiseach Micheál Martin described introducing a new cost-of-disability payment as a «complex» initiative, advocating for a «structured, targeted way» over Sinn Féin's demand for a once-off payment. This new payment, separate from current disability benefits, is a government program commitment.

Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary previously stated that delivering such a payment would be «challenging» within current budgets, noting the additional cost to households with a disabled person can be up to €555 weekly. These costs cover increased heating, energy, accessible transport, assistive technology, equipment, and housing adaptations.

During Leaders’ Questions, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald criticized the government for rejecting her party's Dáil motion seeking an emergency €500 payment and a permanent scheme. She argued the government's response was endless «consultation after consultation» and «report after report,» urging action for disabled people.

Martin countered that government investment in disability has been «very strong,» with the last budget seeing «one of the largest increases ever in disability services.» He highlighted a significant public consultation organized by Calleary, with a paper due in July. Martin emphasized that a targeted approach would better benefit those most in need, rather than a simple once-off payment, given that approximately one million people (22% of the population) identify with a disability.