The Government has been urged to drastically increase the back to school allowance for parents already struggling with the cost of living.
The call comes from Sinn Fein, which is bringing forward a Dail motion today calling for a 50pc increase in the payment for those who already receive it.
Its also calling for the scheme to be expanded to middle income families.
Education Spokesperson, Donnchadh O'Laoghaire, says waiting until the budget at the end of September will be too late.
"I don't believe it's reasonable when people are going to be under more pressure than ever with back to school costs," he continued.
"I have talked to parents who are looking at bills of over €1,000.
"These are huge costs for families and I believe that they need assistance now.
"Waiting until the budget is no good - they will have had to go to the credit union, miss a bill or go to the money lender."
