In this fiery episode, Niall opens the phone lines to callers across the country to weigh in on the government’s decision not to raise the Jobseeker’s Allowance in Budget 2026. While pensioners look set for an increase, the unemployed have been left out – and people have a lot to say about it.

With contributions from concerned citizens, former jobseekers, employers, and advocacy groups, we explore the controversial question: Is the government right to hold back increases for the unemployed – or are they punishing those already struggling?

We also dig into a key recommendation from the Department of Finance's expert group: that welfare thresholds should reflect the national minimum wage. Are current disincentives to part-time work keeping people trapped on the dole? Or is the state simply trying to incentivize a return to employment?

Join Niall and his callers as they debate fairness, compassion, economics, and the future of Ireland’s welfare state.

📣 Opinions For Raising the Jobseeker's Allowance (as expressed by callers):

"It’s not fair to punish people who genuinely can’t work." Many callers say the system fails to consider those with mental health struggles, disabilities, or low qualifications.

"The cost of living affects everyone – not just pensioners." Several listeners argue that inflation has hit the unemployed just as hard, if not harder.

"It’s not about handouts, it’s about survival." Callers point to rising rent, food, and energy costs making current supports inadequate.

"Raising the allowance could support dignity and mental health." Some argue that an increased payment would reduce stigma and stress for those in long-term unemployment.

📣 Opinions Against Raising the Jobseeker's Allowance:

"The system already makes it more profitable for some to stay on the dole." A few callers reference cases where welfare plus housing and child supports add up to the equivalent of a €40,000 salary.

"We should be encouraging work – not dependency." Some listeners believe benefits should incentivize employment and be carefully targeted.

"Pensioners worked their whole lives – they deserve the increase more." A frequent argument was that older people are on fixed incomes and have earned a bigger slice of the budget.

"If people can work, they should." Several callers say the focus should be on upskilling and job placement, not boosting payments.