Pre-Budget Submission 2026

Published August 2025

An overview of ODI’s recommendations for Pre-Budget 2026.

Investing in equity, inclusion, and Ireland's future

The Open Doors Initiative (ODI)’s Pre-Budget Submission 2026 sets out practical, cost-effective measures to build a labour market that is fairer, more inclusive, and aligned with Ireland's commitments under the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

At ODI, we see every day the impact of inequitable systems on people's ability to thrive. Disabled people, migrants, refugees, and other marginalised groups continue to face disproportionate barriers to employment-often living below the poverty line despite being ready and willing to work. This Budget is a chance to change that.

Key Recommendations

• Broaden SUSI grant eligibility to cover all part-time accredited courses.
• Fund intensive English language classes (general and sector-specific) for migrants and refugees.
• Introduce a Cost of Disability payment to address systemic inequality.
• Invest in entrepreneurship programmes for marginalised communities, scaling proven models.
• Expand accessible remote work infrastructure, repurposing unused buildings and reinstating Connected Hubs vouchers.