Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Cork MABS Reports 10% Surge in Assistance Requests

7/15/2025

45 4

Summary

Story summary

In Cork, the South Munster Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) has seen a staggering 10% increase in calls for assistance, highlighting the escalating cost of living crisis. With 190 new clients each month, MABS is calling on the government to take immediate action in Budget 2026 to tackle mortgage distress, skyrocketing utility bills, and unaffordable rents, stressing the urgent need for targeted support.

History

Historical Context

The 2008 financial crisis triggered a severe recession in Ireland, leading to a property price crash by mid-2009 and an unemployment rate that peaked at 15.1% in 2012. As families faced rising mortgage distress, the South Munster Money Advice and Budgeting Service reported a 10% increase in assistance requests, highlighting ongoing economic challenges and the urgent need for government intervention in Budget 2026.

1 of 2

Story summary

In Cork, the South Munster Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) has seen a staggering 10% increase in calls for assistance, highlighting the escalating cost of living crisis. With 190 new clients each month, MABS is calling on the government to take immediate action in Budget 2026 to tackle mortgage distress, skyrocketing utility bills, and unaffordable rents, stressing the urgent need for targeted support.

1 / 2