Cork TD: People are sick of being ripped off

A Cork Sinn Féin TD has promised he and his party will do everything they can to fight for a cost of living package in Budget 2026.

It comes as Taoiseach Micheál Martin ruled out a specific cost of living package in the next budget but promised that government would seek to reduce cost pressures on families, such as through social protection payments and taxation changes.

TD for Cork North Central Thomas Gould told The Echo: “We are now less than two months out from the budget and people are under real pressure.

“There are hundreds, if not thousands, of families in our city and county in energy arrears.

“There are others going into debt now with the cost of back to school and college.

“There are people unsure how they’ll pay their rent and bills in the colder months.

“At the same time, this government continues to tell people there will be no cost of living package in Budget 2026. How is that right?

“People are sick of being ripped off in supermarkets and by a government who just doesn’t care.”

Mr Gould said Sinn Féin will do “everything we can to fight” for people, including holding an event in Cork city on October 4.

“We will confirm the details closer to the time but we want people to know we are on your side and we are doing everything we can to make this Government listen,” he said.

“If you’re angry about student fees, sky-high rents or about being ripped off buying food, put October 4 in your diary and watch this space. 

"This is an emergency and we are ready to stand with you.”