Budget 2026 to Feature Targeted Child Benefit Reforms, Taoiseach Confirms
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has indicated that Budget 2026 will include targeted measures aimed at addressing child poverty, with reforms to the child benefit system under consideration. These reforms are expected to introduce a second tier of top-up payments for less affluent families, while the existing universal level of child benefit will be maintained.
The Coalition government has experienced internal disagreements regarding the future of the €1,000 reduction in the student registration fee, a measure previously part of the cost-of-living package. Statements from Fianna Fáil minister James Lawless suggesting the fee would return to it’s standard rate this year led to public debate with Fine Gael.
Although the Budget is not anticipated to be released in July, the upcoming Summer Economic Statement provides the Government with an opportunity to communicate its strategies for supporting individuals still facing financial pressures due to the ongoing cost of living challenges.
