Almost 50,000 families nationwide benefit from Newborn Baby Grant in 2025 – Deputy Aisling Dempsey

Published on: 20 January 2026


Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Children, Aisling Dempsey, has confirmed that almost 50,000 families have benefitted from Newborn Baby Grants nationwide in 2025.
 
As part of Budget 2025, the Department of Social Protection introduced the Newborn Baby Grant, a once off payment of €280 designed to help families meet the material needs of a newborn baby or a newly adopted child.
 
The grant is paid automatically alongside the first month of Child Benefit, meaning parents do not need to make a separate application.
 
In its first year, the Newborn Baby Grant was paid nationally in respect of 49,841 children, at a total cost of approximately €14 million.
 
Commenting on the figures, Dempsey said:
 
“The birth of a new child is a time of great joy, but it can also place financial pressure on families. Supports like this are essential in easing that pressure and allowing parents to enjoy what truly matters, spending time with their newest family member.
 
“In the first year of this scheme, thousands of families have benefited nationally, with nearly 50,000 families across the country receiving support.
 
“Measures like the Newborn Baby Grant make a tremendous difference to families. It is a priority for Fianna Fáil to continually support parents through schemes like this so they can spend time with their loved ones and focus on the moments that matter.”
 
ENDS