The Irish National Organisation of the Unemployed (INOU) has held its annual delegate conference at which calls were made for greater supports for unemployed people.
A number of motions were debated on topics such as benchmarking social welfare to lift people above the poverty line, as well as increasing investment in education, training and employment programmes.
Delegates also called on the Government to alleviate the effects of cost of living increases through targeted measures, including increasing the fuel allowance.
Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary addressed the conference.
"In these times of rapid change to the world of work, with the emergence of AI automation, digital and green transitions and lifelong learning, the INOU is an important partner, working with my department when it comes to developing strategies and policies across the labour market," he said.
Mr Calleary added: "Government is working to enhance service developments across education, skills, training and employment programmes and I hope to see this reflected in the next Pathways to Work."
INOU Chairperson Joanne Farrell welcomed the minister and delegates to the conference.
She noted the importance of addressing the contemporary issues facing people who are unemployed, and others who are reliant on social welfare supports, in a world that is throwing up new challenges and opportunities.
Roundtable discussions at the conference will be used to inform the INOU's 2027 pre-budget submission to the Government.
