PHASED REDUCTIONS IN the Universal Social Charge , double rent relief for renters and housing initiatives for key workers are just some of the budget asks made at today’s Fianna Fáil parliamentary party meeting.
The minister said there would be a good spread in the welfare package this year, adding that one-off measures would be looked at in September. There were a number of calls for support for younger people in getting on the home ownership ladder, with specific calls for first-time buyer grants to be allowed for second hand houses.
Automatic medical cards to people with serious and chronic illnesses was also called for, as was the extension of free school books for post primary. Read Next Related Reads Varadkar says FG could increase vote share in next election, as party sets out to build more homes Jostling between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil is all about party identity and dismantling '#FFG'
Separately, at a previous parliamentary party meeting, there were calls to Fianna Fáil to install a deputy party leader. When asked about the matter today, Martin repeated that he had not issue with engaging with members on that proposal.