The Sinn Fein spokesperson on housing has condemned budget attacks on those receiving or seeking Rent Supplement.

Dessie Ellis TD was speaking in the wake of announcements that the Department of Social Protection is imposing a 25% increase on the contribution single tenants make towards their rent, rising from the existing weekly contribution of €24 to €30 per week.

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Deputy Ellis said: "People on social welfare are already struggling everyday to make ends meet and have taken hits in other parts of this budget. They cannot afford this increase which to them will be a massive burden. Essential goods and services, such as heating, clothing and food will become a luxury they will have to choose between due to these kind of policies from Labour and Fine Gael."

Deputy Ellis also condemned Minister Burton's mention of reducing the rent limits for people in receipt of Rent Supplement.

(CD)