National Women’s Council of Ireland reacts to Budget 2010

Published: Tuesday, December 08, 2009

Mothers on social welfare or working for low pay will bear the brunt of budgetary cuts, according to the National Women's Council of Ireland. "We deplore the government's decision to cut child benefit and social welfare payments," said Susan McKay, director of the NWCI. "Child benefit is a crucial part of family income - many women will be left wondering if they can afford to continue to work, given that childcare costs continue to rise." Women are also predominantly employed in lower paid public service jobs and are facing further pay cuts.

The NWCI warned that the full impact of cuts will not be evident for some time. "We are extremely concerned about the future of many of our member groups, especially community based women's groups which provide essential services and supports for women and families. Many of them have already been severely damaged by cuts. Many are facing closure. Others, including frontline services to victims of domestic and sexual violence have been warned to expect significant cuts in the new year."