Statistics released on 10 June by the Irish Central Statistics Office show that despite Ireland having the second highest levels of GDP in the EU, at 45.4% above the EU average, its poverty rate is still above the EU average.
Paul Ginnell the Policy Worker with EAPN Ireland said that ‘despite the wealth that has been generated and still exists in Ireland it is a sad reflection on our country that we are not making any real impact on the levels of the population who are at risk of poverty’. He added that ‘the increase in prices on basic goods and services are having a direct impact on the lives of people and those living in poverty who are now struggling to make ends meet’.
Mr Ginnell also stated that ‘it is essential that we make real progress in addressing the wealth inequalities in Ireland and at the same time invest in affordable and quality public services’.
For more information, please contact Paul Ginnell: paul@eapn.ie
