The Workers Party is a democratic, secular socialist party organised throughout the island of Ireland. The party has had branches in Cork for many years and is represented on Cork City Council by Councillor Ted Tynan.
The government has announced new Social Welfare cuts which will mean even more hardship for individuals and families who are already struggling hard to survive. These cuts include:-
Payment to one-parent families will be cut once a child reaches 13 years of age
Unemployed people who refuse a job offer or training may have their payment cut off
Possible cuts in the State Pension - already hinted at by Minister Éamon Ó Cuiv
These are stupid and callous cuts. Anyone with teenagers in their family will know that from 13 years of age onward they become MORE expensive to feed, clothe and educate, not less. While it may seem reasonable that someone refusing to work would face penalties, the reality is that they can now be cut off even if the work or training offered is totally unsuitable and might even result in them coming home with less money due to travel costs, meals, etc. In 2008 thousands of pensioners took to the streets in protest at the government’s decision to take away the automatic Medical Card for Over 70s. The government was terrified of the pensioners and did a u-turn. It can happen again, but only if enough people make their anger felt and put the government on the run – that means letting your local Fianna Fáil TDs and Councillors know how you feel.
Cllr. Ted Tynan represents the Workers' Party on Cork City Council. If there is any issue you wish to raise with Ted you can contact him at Tel: (086) 190 8281 or email him at ted_tynan@corkcity.ie