Wexford TD Backs Barnardos Call For More Support For Children In Budget 2027

Wexford TD Johnny Mythen has met with Barnardos as the children's charity launched its 2025 Annual Report and set out its priorities ahead of Budget 2027.

Barnardos, which has a service centre in Enniscorthy, says demand for support continues to grow across the country.

The charity delivered almost 73,000 in-person sessions for children and parents during 2025 and worked with more than 34,000 children, parents and adults.

However, its waiting list has reached a record 3,023 people, an increase of 31% on the previous year.

Barnardos is calling on the Government to introduce more targeted income supports for children at greatest risk of poverty.

It is also seeking increased funding for the voluntary and community sector, saying families need to be able to access services earlier.

Deputy Mythen attended the launch alongside other TDs and Barnardos representatives.

The charity says its Budget 2027 proposals are focused on reducing child poverty and ensuring organisations working directly with vulnerable families have the resources needed to meet increasing demand.