“The concentration of job losses in low paid sectors means that the impact (of COVID-19) has disproportionately fallen on groups that are least able to endure a financial hit,” said Kieran Stafford, national president, SVP.

"We are grateful that the NI Executive listened to us," said Patrick Friel of the SVP, which wants the Dublin government to do the same.

The experience of ongoing disadvantage takes a physical, psychological and social toll on the lives of too many children and adults, and the effects can be long lasting, says SVP National President, Kieran Stafford.