The St Vincent de Paul charity claimed today poverty and disadvantage are still blighting many communities around Ireland.
Prof John Monaghan
In a pre-Budget submission, SVP called for more effective Government action to share Ireland's economic boom fairly across society.
SVP national vice-president Prof John Monaghan said measures were needed to boost low incomes, create more affordable housing, support education and overhaul the health service
"Irish people really do want a more just sharing of the economic benefits enjoyed by many," he said. "Current social welfare payments are simply not sufficient to meet current rates of inflation for food, fuel, education and health. Those living on low incomes cannot afford basic items."
SVP called for 10,000 social housing units to be created each year from 2007 to 2012. It also wants minimum standards enforced in the private rented sector and more support for homeless services.
On education, Prof Monaghan added: "Much more needs to be done nationally to give such people the same educational chances as others from wealthier backgrounds."
SVP called for a new back to school allowance for primary and secondary schools to cover clothing, footwear, books and related costs. Free school books for all pupils must be provided over next five budgets, it said.
It also demanded free early childhood care and education and action to tackle early school leaving.
Prof Monaghan claimed: "Irish health statistics show that lower income groups get sick more often, suffer worse mental health and die younger. This is a key challenge for Irish society."
He called for full medical cards for 275,000 people to restore the 2001 level of population coverage during 2007. SVP also called for a freeze in A&E charges and healthy food initiatives rolled out from Family Resource Centres.
It also urged the Government to deliver on its commitment to allocate 0.7 per cent of GNP to Overseas Development Aid by 2012 and called for a VAT refund mechanism for charities.
PA