Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan, Brendan Smith, has welcomed the extension of the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance to include children aged 2 and 3 for the first time.

The scheme opened for applications today and will see 3,229 families in Cavan and Monaghan automatically receive payments in July. Nationally, an estimated 37,000 additional children will qualify for support this year as a result of the expansion.

Deputy Smith said:

“I am delighted to see children aged 2 and 3 included in the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance for the first time.

“Anyone raising young children knows just how quickly they grow. Clothes and shoes need to be replaced constantly and those costs can really add up for families.

“This extension recognises that reality and will help parents with some of those everyday costs.

“For many families, every bit of support matters. The Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance is a practical measure that helps families with the costs that come with raising children and preparing for the year ahead.

“I also want to acknowledge the work of Minister Dara Calleary and Minister Norma Foley in securing this extension, which will benefit families in Cavan and Monaghan and right across the country.”

The rate of payment for 2026 is €160 for children aged 2 to 11 and €285 for children aged 12 years and over in second-level education.

More than 109,000 families will automatically receive the allowance nationally during the week beginning 13 July, with payments being made in respect of almost 202,000 children.

Families who do not receive notification of an automatic payment should make an application through MyWelfare.ie, even if they received a payment last year. Applications are now open and the closing date is 30 September 2026.