Leader of the Independent Team of Ministers and Minister for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney TD, has welcomed the opening of applications for the 2025 Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance, confirming that more than 5,000 families in Galway will benefit from the scheme this year.

Over €54 million has been secured nationally to help parents with the cost of school uniforms and footwear ahead of the new academic year, with €160 allocated for each eligible child aged 4-11 and €285 for children aged 12 and over who are attending second-level education.

Speaking today, Minister Canney said: “This is a vital support for families, especially those who may be feeling the financial strain of back-to-school costs. I’m pleased to confirm that over 5,000 families in Galway will automatically receive this payment in July. I encourage any family who does not receive confirmation of their entitlement to apply online at MyWelfare.ie. This scheme is a practical way of ensuring every child has what they need to start the school year with confidence.”

The Department of Social Protection will automatically process payments to more than 114,000 families nationwide – including 5,068 families in Galway – covering approximately 197,000 children in total. These payments will issue during the week beginning 14th July, with families notified via their MyWelfare account or by post.

Families who do not receive an automatic payment are urged to check their eligibility and submit an application as soon as possible. The application window remains open until 30th September 2025.