A recent report from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) revealed that around 230,000 children in Ireland are currently experiencing material deprivation, indicating a measure of poverty based on the lack of essential items for an acceptable standard of living.
While material deprivation among those aged 65+ decreased, it rose for the under 18 age group, highlighting a concerning trend. The pandemic further exacerbated issues, with life satisfaction still not back to pre-pandemic levels and civic participation significantly lower.
Dr. Helen Russell emphasized the need to support disadvantaged communities’ social infrastructure, while Dr. Barra Roantree suggested additional measures, like a second tier of child benefit for low-income families, to combat child poverty and material deprivation effectively.
The Community Foundation of Ireland endorsed the research, highlighting the importance of policy decisions that promote inclusion and equality for all. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to support vulnerable populations and address the underlying causes of poverty in Ireland.