The Irish National Organisation of the Unemployed (INOU) has called for a €16 increase to all core social welfare rates, including for working age payments.
In its pre-budget submission, the INOU said this would prevent further backsliding and erosion of already low incomes.
The organisation said increasing numbers of people, including younger people, are losing confidence in job searching with concerns being raised that employers are not responding to job applications.
To help counteract this, the INOU is calling for improved conditions in the public employment service, in adult education and skills provision.
It is also urging the Government to invest in community organisations that support people to reach their potential.
“Our members are saying loudly and clearly that people in unemployment are facing tough challenges in the face of increasing costs of living,” said Rebecca Gorman, Head of Policy and Media, INOU.
“People in long-term unemployment are not there by choice and are valued members of our community facing a really tough labour market,” Ms Gorman said.
