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2009

SIPTU Youth responds to Budget

Date Released: 14 Dec 2009

 “Last week’s budget represented the most draconian attack on working people since the foundation of the State. The worst hit by Brian Cowen and Brian Lenihan’s litany of cuts were those unfortunate enough to be born after 1985,” said Conor O’Gorman of SIPTU Youth.

“In his speech Minister for Finance, Brian Lenihan said; ‘Unemployment among the young is a particular concern to the Government’ before announcing that;

‘Job-seekers Allowance and Supplementary Welfare Allowance for persons aged 20 and 21 years of age who have no dependent children is being reduced to €100 per week and for those aged between 22 and 24 to €150 per week.’

“It is perfectly clear that the Government’s answer to the growing problem of youth unemployment is to starve the youth of this country into low paid jobs or else force yet another generation to emigrate,” Conor O’Gorman said.

“There is no other country in the world whose response to the current economic crisis is to force its youth into exile. More and more young people are coming out of school and university and being forced straight into the social welfare system.”

“If Brian Lenihan was genuinely concerned about youth unemployment the budget would have included a job creation scheme to help get young people into decent jobs which could help to stimulate the economy.”

“SIPTU Youth calls upon all citizens who feel that this budget is unacceptable and especially young people to take part in the ongoing campaign against this Government’s unfair, unjust and uncaring policies,” he said.

“You can do this by writing to your local Fianna Fáil or Green Party TD to make your feelings known and you can take part in up coming protests and demonstrations.”

“However, the first thing you should do is ensure you are registered to vote and use your vote at the next election to help bring about a fundamental change in Irish politics.”

“Last year, the Government went after the pensioners and they took to the streets and forced the Government to back down. Now is the time for the youth of Ireland to do the same. We are the future of this country and it is up to ourselves to make sure that our voices are heard.”





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