Sinn Féin has pledged €10 a day childcare, large cuts to the USC and a new tax on first class plane tickets as part of its alternative budget. 

The party will launch its plans this morning ahead of Budget 2025 next week.

The party has promised its cost of living package would also include €450 worth of energy credits, double child benefit payments in October and August, lump sum payments to carers, those living alone and those on disability allowance.

The party wants to abolish the TV licence fee and reduce student fees by €1,500, while pausing carbon tax increases and reversing the August rise in excise duty.

The entrance to Government Buildings. Image: robertharding / Alamy Stock Photo

On housing, the party said it could build 21,500 social and affordable homes to buy or rent in 2025 at an additional cost of €2.5 billion. 

It would also remove stamp duty for first time buyers and give renters a minimum payment of €1,000 euro while banning rent increases for three years

In addition, the party said it would discount the first €30,000 someone earns from USC.

Meanwhile, the party also believes it can save €100 million a year on the healthcare budget by cutting down on agency staff, consultants and poor procurement.

On the tax side, Sinn Féin has said it could also raise money through a new tax on private jets, first class plane tickets and luxury cars.

Main image: Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald . Image: PA Images / Alamy