Why do Sinn Féin want to punish pensioners – Byrne

Pensioners who have worked all their lives and contributed to the wellbeing of this country will be shunned in favour of others by Sinn Féin, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Senator Maria Byrne said she was surprised to hear that in the Opposition party’s alternative Budget, Sinn Féin propose to give €10 to pensioners but will reward others including those on unemployment job seekers payments by €15.

“To achieve a balanced, fair, and rewarding Budget, you need to strive for equity. Pensioners, who may be enjoying their retirement after providing for their families and loved ones, should be treated the same as others.

“They have worked all their lives to provide a home for their families and should now be able to enjoy the benefits of that. They have contributed to this country and it’s economic well-being.

“Yet Sinn Féin has them at the bottom of their magic money tree. Sinn Féin want to give pensioners €10 in their alternative Budget while other sectors benefit more. Why?

“Why are they so intent to punish pensioners in this fashion? Can they explain it?” Senator Byrne asked.

The Fine Gael Senator said carers and people with disabilities should be treated the same as pensioners and rewarded the same.

Ahead of Budget 2024, Senator Byrne said Fine Gael is focussed on five areas:

• Putting money back in your pocket to help with the cost of living;
• Helping people in their twenties and thirties own their own home;
• Delivering for rural Ireland and farmers;
• Building stronger, safer communities;
• Ensuring a best start for every child

“In Fine Gael we are intent that next week’s Budget will have a good income tax and USC package which rewards work and puts money back in people’s pockets,” Senator Byrne said.