Fine Gael will ensure financial security for older people – O’Shea

Fine Gael is increasing financial supports that will enhance and support the wellbeing of older people across the country, a Fine Gael General election candidate has said.

Billy O’Shea, who is running for Fine Gael in Kerry, said these supports will go a long way to helping older people with the cost of living.

“I’m delighted to see the confirmation from An Taoiseach Simon Harris today (Saturday) that older people will be prioritised if Fine Gael is returned to government.

“Our commitment to older citizens includes the Older Person’s Guarantee, which will ensure financial security through improved working-age payments and social protection measures.

“We will extend the household benefits package, which reduces monthly gas or electricity bills for people over 70 and provides a free TV licence. We want to ensure that people between the age of 66 and 70 can also get support from this package.

“Fine Gael also wants to raise the State pension to at least €350 per person per week in the next government’s term. This will build on increases we’ve provided over the last number of years from Fine Gael in government.

“This will benefits tens of thousands of people right across the country, and I know will be a huge help for so many people.

“The Living Alone allowance, which is an additional payment given to people over 66 who live alone, is something we also really want to see increased.

“We will build on the progress we’ve already made with Budget 2025, where we committed to an automatic companion pass for over 70s and expanded the Fuel Allowance to those 66 and over.

“It is that generation of people who have helped build our country and have ensured the economic foundations that we have today, so its only fair we give back to them.

“Fine Gael in government have continued to give back to older people for their hard work, and if returned to government they will be a core focus once again”, concluded Billy O’Shea.