Families, Renters and Vulnerable Groups in Cork supported by Budget 2026 – O’Shea

Budget 2026 is a powerful package of supports for working families, renters, and vulnerable groups in Cork, Fine Gael TD for Cork North West John Paul O’Shea has said.

Deputy O’Shea says the cost-of-living measures “delivers real help where it’s needed most. From higher wages to lower bills, from stronger pensions to expanded tax reliefs – Fine Gael is delivering on its promise to protect incomes and support those who need it most.”

The renters tax credit has been boosted by €350m, which will benefit more than 320,000 renters around Ireland, including in Cork with single renters to get €1,000, while jointly assessed couples will receive €2,000.

The reduced 9% VAT rate for gas and electricity bills will be maintained for the next five years, which will help households in Cork to manage energy costs through the winter and beyond.

“The Budget also confirms the retention of mortgage interest tax relief for both the 2025 and 2026 tax years, which will provide continued support to homeowners in Cork facing rising costs,” said Deputy O’Shea.

Following the recommendation of the Low Pay Commission – which includes representatives from IBEC and ISME – the national minimum wage will rise from €13.50 to €14.15 an hour. “This will benefit workers around Cork, and in addition auto-enrolment will begin in January, which will give every worker in Cork an automatic entitlement to a pension for the first time ever,” Deputy O’Shea said.

Eligibility for the fuel allowance will be expanded to include those receiving the Working Family Payment, regardless of household size or means. And in a further boost to social protection recipients, the Christmas Bonus will return – doubling the weekly rate of payment for pensioners, people with disabilities, carers, and lone parents.

“This Budget is about fairness, dignity, and opportunity,” Deputy O’Shea said. “It reflects Fine Gael’s values: rewarding work, supporting families, and protecting the most vulnerable. We are proud to deliver a Budget that is putting people and their jobs first.”