According to reports late last night it is understood the returning Christmas Bonus, which was scrapped back in 2009, will be restored by 75% in the upcoming budget.
The welcome news means a single pensioner will reportedly recieve €173 whilst married pensioners will receive €327 this Christmas. The news comes as details of todays budget emerged last night, it is highly believed that the price of a packet of 20 cigarettes is to increase by 50C, taking the price to €10.50 per packet. Early reports suggest that the Finance Minister Michael Noonan, had an overall €750m for public spending in 2016 but it now looks like that figure will be increased to €800m due to the increase in price of cigarettes.
It is believed that out of the €800 sum, A whopping €600 will go on changes to the Universal Social Charge and tax credits for the self-employed. It is expected that Mr Noonan will say Tax credits for the self-employed will rise over a three year period. It is also believed that the Fuel Allowance payment will increased by €2.50 per week from January 2016, which will mark an increase from €20 a week to €22.50. Mr Noonan will also reintroduce The Respite Care Grant starting next year, whilst a further €120m has been allocated to housing sector. It is widely expected that the two week paid paternity leave along with free preschool from the age of three will be offered to parents.