06.10.2026
Positive Budgetary Figures Must Translate Into Meaningful Action – Budget 2027
Archbishop Michael Jackson, as Chairperson of the Church of Ireland’s Church and Society Commission, has issued the following statement on Budget 2027:
Today’s Budget 2027 announcements from the Government come at a time of great uncertainty and concern for many on this island. However positive the budgetary figures may appear, they must be translated into meaningful action shaped by compassion and moral responsibility. The common good depends not only on the allocation of resources, but on the values that guide their use and ensure that no one is left behind. As inflation continues to rise, and many are pushed far beyond financial insecurity, we must ask ourselves how equally these measures impact all areas of society and help those who are most in need. The Church, with its network of parishes and communities across the urban–rural divide, remains uniquely placed to provide an ethical response and legitimate commentary on these matters that affect human dignity, the common good, the most vulnerable in society, families, communities, and future generations.
As the world experiences a period of significant unpredictability, particularly in relation to the provision of fuels and energy, the increases in State pensions and core welfare payments including the Fuel Allowance are welcome. However, as many families seek to exist on fixed incomes, and many more struggle monthly to stay above the poverty line, there remains significantly more to do. No family should have to choose between heating and eating.
In the sphere of healthcare, the introduction of a €500 annual disability payment is particularly welcome as a recognition of the extra costs to those who find themselves living with or supporting disability. While this is a positive step, this area requires consistent structured support, rather than a reliance on lump sum payments. As Christians we are called to uphold the dignity and rights of all people.
One of those groups in our society which is perhaps most under pressure, are young families. While the measures introduced are welcome in their support of the rising cost of childcare, the reality is that many families require both parents to work full–time in order to make ends meet. Family life should not be undermined by economic pressure, and further advocation is needed to cement a work–life balance and parental wellbeing.
We all recognise that one of the defining issues of our generation is homelessness, and the chronic shortage of housing. The practical assistance of the expansion of the Help–to–Buy scheme is welcome, however the supply of affordable housing remains the more deeply rooted issue. The recognition that housing is a social good, not a market commodity, must remain the focus of us all. While the Government moves to address housing shortages, the national homelessness figures continue to break previous records, as young families are forced to live out of hotel rooms.
Consistent and growing support for rural Ireland continues to pose a challenge. The wellbeing of rural Ireland ultimately depends not only on short–term financial relief but on sustained investment in the people, services, and community life that allow communities to flourish. The common good requires that no community is left behind because of where it is located. Transport infrastructure and interconnectivity between rural areas, and their greater environs, is something which requires significantly more investment. Investment in transport and infrastructure is not merely about roads, buses and buildings. For rural communities it is about connection, dignity and belonging. The true measure of these investments will be whether they reduce isolation, sustain local communities and ensure that people can continue to live and flourish in every part of Ireland, and are not penalised or disadvantaged for choosing to do so.
The Church is acutely aware of the way in which many farming communities are now struggling through the unprecedented increase in fuel costs. While we continue to focus on environmental stewardship and climate change, and indeed welcome the government’s commitment to these issues, the reality is that many industries still rely on traditional fuels. As part of the monumental transformation needed, the Government must ensure that those poorest households, and those at high risk of fuel price increases, are protected from what will be a costly energy transition.
As we reflect on the opportunities and challenges presented by this budget, may we recognise the resilience and contribution of all communities throughout Ireland. Consistent and adequate investment in people, communities, and local services remains essential if our society are to flourish. In that spirit, we are reminded that “Let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest–time, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).
The Most Rev Dr Michael Jackson
Archbishop of Dublin and Chairperson of the Church and Society Commission