Workers, families and businesses need fulsome support in the face of the present public health emergency, Sinn Féin TD for Longford/Westmeath, Sorca Clarke, has vehemently stated.
“In the face of the unprecedented public health emergency brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, it is vital that workers, families and businesses are given all the support they need at this time.
“There is huge uncertainty in society at present, and as people come to terms with the consequences of measures that have been announced by government, it is essential that adequate measures are put in place to allay the fears and concerns of ordinary citizens.
“Those who have had the misfortune of losing their jobs, those that have had their hours cut and those that have been forced out of employment to care for children must be supported, and whilst changes that have been announced to the social welfare system are welcome, other changes may be required in the time ahead to ensure that economic hardship is averted.
“Families and workers must also be protected from rent increases and evictions at this very difficult time, and a mortgage holiday should also be provided for by all banks, in addition to a suspension of utility disconnections by all providers
“The childcare needs of frontline healthcare workers - who are the source of much pride in our communities at this time - must be met as a matter of urgency. Government needs to work closely with workers and the childcare sector to find a solution for them very quickly.
“Childcare providers and workers must also be supported through this period of emergency closure and a package of measures including income supports must be clearly outlined as a matter of priority. Other businesses also need urgent interventions; including a deferral of VAT payments.
“It is vital that we pull together at this time as a community and as a country. Together we can get through this and while our local offices are closed, Sinn Féin representatives are at hand to assist those impacted by measures introduced to combat Covid-19 in any way we can,” Deputy Clarke emphasised.
