The Social Democrats have launched\u00a0their alternative budget, with a call for the Government to focus on \u2018Survival and Revival\u2019 across economic and social life.<\/p>\n
The party is calling for a focus on protecting jobs and incomes, strengthening public services, and investing to offer people hope in the future.<\/p>\n
The party’s pre-budget document lays out a number of priorities which\u00a0it says should guide Budget 2021. These are:<\/p>\n
\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Fund 150 ICU beds
\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Establish a commission on the introduction of a statutory right to flexible work, including a 4-day week
\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Targeted supports for business sectors most impacted by Covid-19
\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Properly fund mental health services
\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Establish a national sick pay scheme
\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Maintaining PUP payments<\/p>\n
The document also lays out a number of revenue raising measures, which the Social Democrats have repeatedly highlighted as options for Government at budget time.<\/p>\n
Commenting,\u00a0Social Democrats co-leader R\u00f3is\u00edn Shortall TD said:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0
\u201cThis has to be a budget like no other. We need to ensure that the budget offers hope \u2013 hope that incomes can be sustained, jobs can be protected, and the economy can be revived. This is why our budget lays out policies which support a job rich recovery. We are clear that there must be an unprecedented investment in job protection and job creation.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe strongly support the introduction of a national sick pay scheme. We have identified the roll out of 150 ICU beds as a key priority. Putting Ireland on a clear path to Sl\u00e1intecare is an imperative, including fully resourced mental health services. Now, more than ever, the case for a healthcare service that works for all is resolutely clear. Alongside the Covid-19 pandemic a second crisis rages on in housing. Addressing this has to be a clear focus of Budget 2021.\u201d<\/p>\n
Commenting, Social Democrats co-leader Catherine Murphy TD said:<\/p>\n
\u201cCovid-19 has showed up many of the weaknesses of our society and our economy. That is why we want to revive our country, as well as put establish the investment necessary to build a better future. Our proposals lay out what needs to be done to create a far more resilient, fair and secure society.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe want to fully embrace the role of an active, social democratic state to ensure that economic development and secure job creation will be a priority over deficit reduction. Equally important is ensuring decent quality of life for everyone through investment in universal public services.\u00a0Now is the time for investment in balanced economic development and capital spending projects which can fuel a sustainable social and economic model.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe pandemic has exposed huge cracks in our public services. We need to revive our country through appropriate investment in high-quality public services to make up for decades of underinvestment. The\u00a0economic priority needs to be on a job led recovery.\u201d<\/p>\n