NCBI has expressed disappointment at the budget announcement to cut the Blind Pension and Disability Allowance by €8 from €196 to €188.

This is on top of a reduction to the Blind Persons Tax Credit of €180 from €1,830 to €1,650. The supplementary allowance payable to Blind Persons in receipt of a Blind Pension has been also reduced from €61 to €58.50.

NCBI Chief Executive Des Kenny said that these cuts have a profound impact on the most vulnerable.

“Politicians must listen more closely to people and truly realise what today’s budget means for them. These cuts perpetuate the uncertainty and state of fear that vulnerable people live in about their stability and financial futures.”