Cost of living proving to be a killer in Ireland
By Larry Donnelly
September 21, 2022
It is quite depressing, not to mention repetitious, to discuss the staggering rate of inflation in Ireland in this space. But as I sat down to write, Newstalk radio host Kieran Cuddihy posited that the big question for many people these days, as colder weather approaches, is “How am I going to survive this winter?” The fear of those already struggling to get by is palpable. It is the dominant topic of conversation.
For on top of hikes in the price of electricity and gas (roughly 24 percent and 32 percent, respectively) in May, one leading provider has announced further that increases of 35 and 39 percent will take effect on the first of October. These have been attributed to “continued volatility” and “ongoing market uncertainty” in “unprecedented times.” There is an energy shortage and speculation abounds that there could be blackouts in the months ahead. Soaring costs are having a tangible negative impact on businesses and households alike.
The government, together with its counterparts across Europe, is considering a range of measures to ameliorate what could become a truly dreadful situation throughout the continent. Additionally, consumers are being urged to pinch pennies. Here in Wicklow, for instance, warm clothing will supplant turning the heat on and the Christmas lights won’t be blazing for hours on end – at least if I have a say in the matter.
While some commentators caution against panic, asserting that the media are engaging in scaremongering and claiming that the present crisis could helpfully hasten an overdue transition away from fossil fuels, their theorizing will be small comfort for many Irish people. Those most adversely affected will expect elected officials to solve the problem, pronto. Regrettably, that’s not possible.
This seems destined to be the winter of our discontent. And as for a probable political consequence: the rise and rise of Sinn Féin. |
