Poverty Focus 2024

In Poverty Focus we examine the nature and experiences of poverty in Ireland. Drawing on the available statistical evidence, we outline how poverty is measured, the value of the poverty line and consider many of the groups in our society who are most exposed to living life below the poverty line. This year we pay particular attention to the working poor. 

Poverty Focus 2024 - main findings:

• In 2023, almost 145,000 people in employment were still at risk of poverty. This is a remarkable statistic, and it is important that policy better recognises and addresses this problem. This and the next Government need to prioritise this issue and at a time of ‘full employment’, ensure coherent policy design ensuring good quality jobs and that work pays.
• The overall poverty rate of 10.6 per cent in 2023 corresponds to 559,850 people living below the 60 per cent of median income poverty line in that year. 
• Without cost of living supports the at risk of poverty rate would have been 13 per cent. While these measures supported vulnerable households, particular people aged over 65, the majority of these measures are one off in nature. This makes today’s figures very concerning and points to the long term economic and social impact on households as these temporary measures wind down. In addition, inflation has meant that the real value of household income has fallen, which is very concerning for households reliant on fixed incomes.
• Those not employed due to long-term illness or disability are one of the groups at highest risk of poverty with over one-quarter (27.3 per cent) classified as living on an income below the poverty line.
• Despite declining inflation, cost-of-living pressures remain a challenge for those on the lowest incomes. While the number at risk of poverty has fallen, the deprivation rate has actually risen to 913,717 people, reflecting the damaging impact cost-of-living pressures.