Minister Catherine Martin believes that the Green Party is "absolutely delivering" while in government this time around.
Today her party had its annual 'think in' ahead of the new Dáil term and, according to Minister Martin, so far the Green Party has satisfied the country's needs to the best of its ability.
While she was unable to give specifics, the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media told The Anton Savage Show that Budget 2023 will have "targeted measures" to ensure that "those least able to cope receive the most help".
"We are very conscious as government of that extraordinary pressure due to the the unprecedented level of energy price increases", she said.
Minister Martin said that the crisis is "driven by international factors" and largely "outside of Ireland's control".
Ukraine
On whether she thinks the continuous strain the war in Ukraine is having will reduce Irish sympathy with Ukrainian refugees, Minister Martin said she is hopeful we will continue to provide "céad míle fáilte".
"I think Ireland can be very proud in how we have welcomed those fleeing from horrific circumstances."
"I have confidence in the Irish ... and it is our job as government to make sure we introduce strong enough measures, with a combination of universal and targeted, to help people."
"I think, as a party, we have truly made our mark in government."
Looking back on the Green Party's work so far this tenure, the Minister described success.
"I think, as a party, we have truly made our mark in government."
"This government is making incredible progress on climate action, on equality, on transport, on integration, on biodiversity", she said.
"I think that is really down to the Green Party and the influence that we have."
She cited the reduction in public transport costs for young people, pay increases for childcare workers and the Basic Income Scheme for artists as some of the party's achievements.
Listen back to the full conversation here.
Main image shows Minister Catherine Martin. Picture by: Sam Boal/RollingNews.ie
