Public Consultation on two potentially transformative social protection payments – O’Shea

Everyone should have their say in a public consultation on two potential payments which could represent the most significant reform in Ireland’s social protection system in a generation, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Chair of the Oireachtas Social Protection Committee, Deputy John Paul O’Shea said: “This is a genuine opportunity for families, workers and anyone who cares about tackling child poverty to shape how our social protection system evolves.

“I want to see as many people as possible take part – your views and experiences matter. The Government is listening, now is the time to speak up.”

The Government has published a Discussion Document seeking views on a potential Targeted Child Payment and a potential Working Age Payment. Both proposals aim to tackle child poverty and remove so-called ‘cliff-edges’ in the current system that can discourage people from taking on extra hours or moving into employment.

No decisions have been made, and Government has committed to considering all feedback before deciding whether to keep the existing system, adjust current rules, or introduce more fundamental reform.

The proposed Targeted Child Payment would replace the existing Child Support Payment and Working Family Payment and provide a standalone weekly payment to low-income families with children. The current Child Benefit payment would remain unaffected.

The Programme for Government commits to reducing consistent child poverty, and the Targeted Child Payment aims to progress that goal.

The proposed Working Age Payment would be available to those aged between 18 and 66 who are either unemployed or working on a low income, regardless of how many hours they work.

Deputy O’Shea continued: “Ireland’s social protection system is consistently rated among the most effective at reducing poverty in the EU, and these proposals aim to build on that record by providing more targeted support to those who need it most.

“Fine Gael wants to create a stronger link between social protection and earnings. The Working Age Payment would replace the existing Jobseekers’ Allowance payment. It will ensure people always see an increase in income when they take on additional work by removing inconsistencies and anomalies in the current system.”

The final designs of both potential payments will be considered following the consultation process. The existing Child Benefit payment will remain unchanged and will not be impacted by the introduction of any potential new payments.

Deputy O’Shea said Fine Gael wants to continue its strong record of significant social policy reforms.

“We have been instrumental in introducing the Pay Related Benefit and Auto Enrolment. These proposals aim to create a fairer social protection system that encourages employment and supports individuals in achieving financial independence.”

Submissions are invited from all interested stakeholders, including workers, jobseekers, employers, and representative organisations, particularly those advocating for the rights of children and families, and should be forwarded by email to: WACPConsultation@welfare.ie by 5pm on 12 June 2026.