A double child benefit is due to be paid out today.

650 thousand families are set to receive the payment which is part of the cost of living package announced in Budget 2024.

Photo via Pixabay

It means that parents will get 280 euro per child.

Stephen Moffatt, Bernardos National Policy Manager says it will make a big difference to families who are struggling.

'It's nearly 2 years since the start of the cost of living crisis came about so families have been really struggling for a long period of time.  The reserves have run out.  This will alleviate some of those financial pressures for a short period as I said allow parents to provide essential items for their children which is slightly concerning that they need this lump sum to do that.'