The Government has released the Second Progress Report from the Child Poverty and Well-Being Programme Office, marking the completion of reporting for its initial Programme Plan, "From Poverty to Potential".

According to the update, prioritising child poverty is yielding tangible results, with enhanced supports for children and families helping to build a more inclusive society and placing children's well-being at the forefront of policy.

The report highlights substantial advances under the first plan, including higher child-related payments, broader access to early learning and childcare, free schoolbooks for primary and post-primary pupils, and the rollout of a new DEIS Strategy alongside the DEIS Plus Scheme. Despite ongoing cost-of-living pressures, the latest figures indicate child poverty declined from 8.5% in 2024 to 7.8% in 2025.

The analysis underscores that poverty is multi-dimensional—while adequate income is vital, coordinated action matters. Drawing on contributions from 12 departments, the report offers a cross-government view of what can be achieved through a clear, coherent approach.

After the report was published, the Taoiseach said: "Continuing to cut child poverty on this scale will be tough, especially as we face economic uncertainty and the risk of widening inequality. But we know what works and we know how to turn this ambition into reality.

"The way forward is to prioritise those who need our help most and to keep making progress year by year. As we move towards our 2030 target, we will be steadfast in our commitment to protect the dignity of children and the dignity of the adults they will become.

"The establishment of a Child Poverty Unit in the Department of the Taoiseach has strengthened government action, increased the prioritisation of children, and driven more joined-up responses." Hildegarde Naughton, Minister for Education and Youth, said: "Every child and young person deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. That is why we are investing in measures that help break the cycle of disadvantage and ensure every child can reach their full potential. Earlier this year, I was delighted to launch the new ten-year DEIS Strategy, alongside the first three-year DEIS Implementation Plan and the landmark DEIS Plus scheme. Together, these initiatives strengthen supports for children and young people who need them most and help create more inclusive educational opportunities."

"Reducing the cost of education for families is a key priority. The extension of the free schoolbooks scheme to all children and young people attending primary, post-primary and special schools in the Free Education Scheme is a significant milestone, helping to ease financial pressures on families. We are committed to building on this progress, including through a review of existing measures designed to reduce the cost of school uniforms and other school-related expenses. Through these actions, we are helping to remove barriers to education and ensuring that every child and young person can participate, succeed and thrive."

Norma Foley, Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, said: "High quality early learning and care and school-age childcare services have an important role to play in children's development and in helping to break the inter-generational cycle of poverty and social exclusion. That is why this Government is prioritising a record investment of almost €1.5 billion in early learning and care and school-age childcare services to support children from all backgrounds, most particularly children with additional needs and those at risk of educational disadvantage.

"As part of Budget 2026, ten new Family Resource Centres have been announced and Tusla's budget has been increased by €165 million, to provide vital frontline services to children and families experiencing poverty."

The report can be accessed at: www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/7c189-child-poverty-and-well-being-programme-office/