Huge turnout at rally shows fears over uncertainty

PROTECTING the most vulnerable during this cost of living crisis must be the Government’s main priority when Budget 2023 is unveiled on Tuesday.

- CATHERINE MURPHY

The huge turnout for yesterday’s rally in Dublin was a timely reminder that people are angry and frustrated.

Those I spoke to at the march were genuinely worried about the tough and uncertain winter that lies ahead.

Workers and families are under severe pressure from rising prices and exorbitant energy bills. They want reassurance that the Government will help them.

The reality is that, without immediate assistance, many families will struggle to buy food, keep their homes warm or pay their rent or mortgage.

And in the absence of State support, some businesses will see the shutters come down for good before the year is out.

In the Social Democrats’ alternative budget, published this week, we put forward a range of measures to insulate the most vulnerable in our society and protect living standards.