Child Benefit: Fair for All or Just for Some? Episode 472

In this episode, Niall opens the lines to discuss a hot-button issue: Child Benefit. Currently set at €140 a month per child and paid universally—regardless of income—this payment also increases for twins, triplets, and other multiple births. But should wealthier families earning over €100,000 a year still receive it? Or should that money be redirected to boost payments for low-income families instead?

Callers from all walks of life join the conversation, sharing their pros and cons.

Example Pros discussed:

Redirecting funds could provide greater support to families who need it most.

Means-testing might make the system fairer and more efficient.

Savings could be reinvested into child welfare services.

Example Cons discussed:

Universal payments are simple to administer and avoid complex bureaucracy.

Means-testing could create stigma or discourage parents from working more hours.

All parents contribute to the tax system, so all should benefit.

From fairness and efficiency to equality and practicality, Niall and his callers dig deep into what Child Benefit should look like in modern Ireland.