DCU Students Union has welcomed “short term initial initiatives” from Budget 2023, but said it does not go far enough.
In a statement posted on social media, the Union said they were disappointed with the “lack of support” for those in student accommodation and digs, PhD students, and issues around access to Higher Education.
However, the Budget does bring some supports to those in education, and provides supports for households as a result of the cost of living crisis.
Here are some of the measures announced by the Government:
Education
Students in third-level education will see a €1,000 reduction in their fees this year, with an extra €500 reduction for households who earn less than €100,000 a year.
SUSI grant recipients will get a double payment in the lead up to Christmas, and PhD students will see a €500 cost of living payment.
€8 million has been set aside for the Student Assistance fund, and there will be a €1,000 increase in the Postgraduate Tuition Fee Contribution Grant in November.
Over 2,500 additional places will be given for “craft & consortia led apprenticeships”.
Cost-of-living supports
The Government has said they are providing €1.7 billion in cost-of-living measures to ease the burden on households in the next few months.
Households will receive three €200 electricity credits, paid out in November, January and March.
There will be a double payment of the Child Benefit, a €400 lump sum for those receiving Fuel Allowance, and a €500 lump sum for Carers Support Grant and Disability Payment recipients – all of which will be paid out in November.
All eligible recipients will get a Christmas Bonus, and anyone in weekly welfare schemes will get a double week paid to them in October.
Health
The Government is abolishing all inpatient hospital charges, and also making 340,000 people eligible for a GP Visit Card.
To get a GP Visit Card, you must earn below the median income, which is €46,000.
Free contraception will now be available for all women aged 16-30.
Tax
Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe announced changes to the PAYE and USC tax brackets.
The higher rate of 40% will now apply to those earning over €40,000 a year, from €36,800.
The 2% USC tax band has also risen from €21,295 to €22,920.
UCDSU said the lack of certainty around issues such as accommodation is “frightening”.
Matthew Joyce