Energy credit of €250 for all households

The Minister for Public Expenditure, NPD Delivery and Reform Paschal Donohoe said Budget 2025 will include an energy credit of €250 for all households.

This will be paid in two equal payments, one before the end of the year and one after.

The Minister said a further €300 lump sum payment will be made to recipients of the Fuel Allowance in November, while an additional €200 will be paid to recipients of the Living Alone Allowance.

There will also be a €400 payment to those who receive the Carer's Support Grant, Disability Allowance, Blind Pension, Invalidity Pension and Domiciliary Care Allowance in November 2024.

To support parents and students, funding will continue for the School Transport fee reduction and for the State Exam Fee waiver, the Minister added.

Mr Donohoe also announced the continued reduction of the student contribution fee by €1,000, as well as a once-off reduction of 33% in the contribution fee for apprentices in higher education.

Budget 2025 will also see an increase in the Post Graduate Tuition fee contribution by €1,000 euro for student grant recipients.