Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan- Monaghan, Brendan Smith, has welcomed confirmation from the Minister for Social Protection that over 126,000 families nationwide will receive over €47.5 million from the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance.
Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary TD, announced this week that over 126,000 families will receive the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance.
The payment from the Department of Social Protection is designed to support eligible families with the cost of school uniforms and footwear ahead of the upcoming school term.
The rates of payment for the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance are €160 for children aged 4 to 11, and €285 for children aged 12 years and over in second level education.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Deputy Smith said he was "acutely aware" of the financial struggles families are currently facing, particularly in the months where children are getting ready to begin a new school year.
Deputy Smith said he will also support further targeted and sustainable measures in the upcoming Budget that focus on bringing down the high cost of living for families:
