36% of families in arrears over last 12 months

A new report from Barnardo's reveals that 36% of families in Ireland have fallen into arrears on energy bills over the past year. The data indicates rising financial hardship, with more parents skipping meals or using food banks to cope with inflation.
Why it matters
The findings underscore the severe impact of the cost-of-living crisis on child welfare and the potential for long-term social inequality.
New research carried out for the children's charity Barnardo's has found that just over one-third of families went into arrears on their energy bills at some point over the last 12 months.
The focus on social welfare and advocacy for government intervention aligns with progressive policy priorities.
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