The cost of living bites as inequality deepens...

Govt is blamed for ongoing crisis

- SEAN MURPHY

MORE than eight in 10 people are now worried about the ongoing cost of living crisis as biting price rises hit harder across the population.

It has been revealed in a new survey that some 84% of people are significantly concerned and many blame Government failures to address it.

The analysis for the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC) revealed that the crisis is now impacting deeper and affecting more homes.

People admitted fears that they will not be able to afford their household costs in the months to come.

The financial pressure puts huge strains on the public and has influenced people's interpretations of national equality, according to the IHREC.

Its chief Liam Herrick claimed the poll showed "an Ireland pulled in two directions".

He said: "On one hand, growing inequality and increasing reports of discrimination.

"On the other, a resilient and deep commitment in our society for values of fairness, solidarity and justice.

"The lived experiences behind those perceptions are stark. These are not abstract percentages.

"They represent adults excluded from employment, children bullied in classrooms, neighbours harassed on the street.