Fianna Fail TDs are also reported to want a €10 weekly increase in the State pension.
A Junior Minister says there needs to be a significant increase in social welfare rates to combat long-term poverty.
Joe O'Brien wants to see the Government move to a top rate of €245 a week - up from the current 203.
The Minister says he'll be pushing for as large a package as possible in the budget to target those most hit by the Covid pandemic.
Minister O'Brien says ultimately, social welfare rates are too low:
Sinn Fein says they’re not too hopeful about what will be contained in the upcoming Budget.
Fianna Fail TDs are also reported to want a €10 weekly increase in the State pension.
Sinn Fein’s Louise O’Reilly says many pensioners are worried about the months ahead
.

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