The measures, which were approved by Cabinet this morning, are in response to the recommendations from the Commission on Pensions.

Social Justice Ireland has launched its ‘Social Justice Matters: 2022 Guide to a Fairer Ireland’ which highlights the need for a €27 increase in social welfare rates.

The new scheme will be gradually introduced on a phased basis

"The State shouldn’t prioritise the relationship between a married couple over that of a cohabiting couple," Cllr John Maher said.