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One in five children currently living below the poverty line, the ESRI has found Shutterstock
The Daily PollShould the government introduce a second tier of child benefit?
Researchers a second tier of child benefit would cost an estimated €772m.
RESEARCH FROM THE Economic and Social Research Institute (ERSI) has suggested that a second tier of child benefit targeting low income households could “lift more than 50,000 children out of poverty”.
The estimated cost is around €772m, but researchers say this would be a “price worth paying” in attempt to end intergenerational poverty.
While Tánaiste Simon Harris said he is in favour of a second tier of child benefit, he added that it would take several years to implement.
Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe also acknowledged the “merits” of a tiered system, but said the “very significant cost” has to be considered as part of the budget process.
So, today we’re asking: Should the government introduce a second tier of child benefit?
Poll Results:
No (4119)
Yes (3031)
Unsure (1068)
have your say