The CSO Survey on Income and Living Conditions has been published a few days before Christmas on 19 December 2017.
It shows that despite some small improvements in poverty and deprivation rates, more than 790,000 people are living in poverty in Ireland, of which over 250,000 are children.
Despite an increase in average incomes and other signs of economic recovery, these figures show that a significant proportion of the population is still living in very difficult circumstances. These figures are unacceptable in a rich, developed country like Ireland.
Read the reactions of:
and the call on all Senators and TDs by ATD a day after the publication, on International Human Solidarity Day (20 Decemebr 2017).
“At Christmas time we are reminded of those living in poverty and called on to provide important support to charities. However, poverty is unacceptable, especially in a wealthy country like Ireland, so it is crucial that we address the causes of poverty and make sure poverty is something no-one has to face. Let’s again calls on the Government to urgently put in place an integrated anti-poverty plan with the ambition necessary to make a decisive impact on poverty.” says Paul Ginnell, member of the 17 October Committee and Director of EAPN Ireland.