Mayo Minister hosts pre-budget forum with community groups regarding social welfare

Over 60 representative organisations and community groups represented

The Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary TD, hosted the Department’s annual Pre-Budget Forum today in Dublin.

This forum offers a unique opportunity for NGOs, trade union and business representatives to discuss policy issues and present their priorities for the upcoming Budget.

Representatives from a broad range of organisations and community groups attended the Forum which was moderated by broadcaster, Ingrid Miley.

Speaking at the Forum, Minister Calleary thanked the various groups for attending and providing valuable contributions which helps to create an understanding of their priorities for Budget initiatives.

Addressing the forum, Minister Dara Calleary said: “This highly important event provides me with a great opportunity to meet with organisations who advocate so passionately for their constituencies and set out their priorities for the upcoming budget.”

He continued: “It is a unique forum where I get to hear the evidence and policy analysis from those who are directly affected by budget measures, such as pensioners, carers, people with disabilities or others who rely on social welfare supports.”