THE SOCIETY OF ST Vincent de Paul has recorded a significant increase in calls, according to the organisation’s vice president, John Monaghan. Speaking before the Joint Committee on Social Protection this morning, Mr Monaghan said calls had increased around the country.
Calls increased by 37% in Dublin, 46% in Galway and 50% in Cork. Of all the calls received, Mr Monaghan said that up to 20% were from non-nationals living in Ireland. Earlier this month, the SVP warned that many people were struggling to make ends meet, and their well being was being threatened by further income cuts.
Caroline Fahey of the SVP told the Committee that people are being incorrectly refused social welfare and are also being refused supplementary payments while appealing that decision. She said this was “hugely unjust”.
