The article discusses the salaries of various political roles in Ireland, highlighting the financial challenges faced by local councillors compared to higher-ranking politicians like TDs and MEPs. Dr. Aodh Quinlivan from UCC emphasizes the lack of a pension scheme for local councillors and the significant pensions enjoyed by former TDs and Ministers. Cllr Shane O’Callaghan and former politician Emmet O’Halloran share their perspectives on the rewards and challenges of a political career, stressing the importance of genuine interest and community service. The article also touches on the impact of abolishing Town Councils in 2014 on political diversity.

Research from Trinity College indicates that a significant portion of grandparents in Ireland provide childcare, with varying hours per month. The practice of grandparents caring for grandchildren is common in various countries, including China and the United States. The issue of whether grandparents should be paid for this service is complex and depends on individual circumstances, family bonds, and financial situations. Some experts believe that while grandparents may not expect payment, offering some form of compensation could be appropriate. A few years ago, there was a proposal for a government-supported grant for grandparents in Ireland, but it did not materialize. Additional research from Trinity College suggests that providing extensive childcare can negatively impact grandparents' mental health, and in Britain, grandparents can claim tax credits for childcare.

Experts emphasize the importance of teaching children about money management through pocket money, advocating for it to be earned and used wisely. A Bank of Ireland survey indicates primary school children in Ireland receive about €6 weekly, while secondary school students get €10. Revolut offers a feature for parents to automate pocket money transfers. Schooldays.ie and financial experts like Mr Conway and John Lowe from Moneydoctors.ie suggest that children should save part of their pocket money and learn about financial independence, with parents avoiding bailouts for unsaved funds. They also recommend discussing money openly with children to influence their financial attitudes positively.

Money plays a significant role in relationships, often leading to conflicts. Celebrity matchmaker Rachel Greenwald highlights that while money can facilitate finding love, it can also hinder genuine connections. Financial expert John Lowe emphasizes the importance of communication and honesty about finances in relationships, advising couples to discuss money matters openly to avoid conflicts. Mortgage advisor Joey Sheahan notes that financial dishonesty, such as hidden spending, can impact couples' financial stability. Overall, the article underscores the need for transparency and understanding in managing money within relationships.

The article discusses the considerations for deciding whether to claim car insurance or pay for repairs out of pocket. Experts from 123.ie, Peopl Insurance, and Bonkers.ie provide insights on the financial implications, including the potential increase in premiums and the impact on no-claims bonuses. It emphasizes the importance of reporting all incidents to insurers and evaluating the extent of damage before making a claim. The article also highlights the potential long-term savings from maintaining a no-claims bonus and advises on the appropriate steps to take following an accident.

The article provides nine suggestions for making money from one's home, including home swapping, upcycling, renting out a room, reducing home insurance bills, hosting on Airbnb, dog sitting, baking cakes, renting out a driveway, and reducing energy use. It mentions the tax-free income threshold for renting a room in Ireland, the overpayment percentage for long-term home insurance customers, and the average rental income from Airbnb in Cork city. It also references the Central Bank of Ireland, Revenue's tax rules, and support from the Department of Social Protection, MABS, and Saint Vincent De Paul.

Christmas entertainment options such as pantos, cinema, and ice skating are adding to the financial stress of the holiday season. Cork Opera House and Everyman Theatre offer pantos with ticket prices for a family of four ranging from €124 to €145, while Dublin's Gaiety panto costs €200 plus fees. Bord Gais Theatre's show, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, has tickets priced at €282.40 for premium seats. Ice skating rinks and cinemas also offer family deals, with additional fees for booking. Despite these costs, there are free outdoor activities available, such as walks and playgrounds, providing festive entertainment options.

Supermarkets in Ireland offer various Click-and-Collect services, with Aldi charging a fee and Lidl not providing the service. Tesco, Dunnes Stores, and SuperValu offer free Click-and-Collect options, with Tesco imposing a minimum basket charge for orders under €30. The services emphasize convenience, with features like booking slots for Christmas, trained pickers for fresh produce, and easy-to-use online systems. Home delivery is also available, with Tesco offering deals for older customers and delivery packages.

In Ireland, nearly €85 million was stolen through frauds and scams last year, with a significant rise in text message fraud, or smishing. The Banking and Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI) and other organizations like ComReg and FraudSmart emphasize the importance of consumer vigilance. Banks are investing in security measures and educational initiatives, such as Revolut's new course on scam awareness. Experts advise against clicking on suspicious links and stress the importance of verifying the authenticity of communications. Consumers are urged to report any fraudulent activity to their banks and the Gardaí.

Dropshipping involves selling products without holding inventory, where the seller passes orders to manufacturers who ship directly to customers. Walter Dunphy and Cian Murphy provide insights into the business model, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right products, suppliers, and market segments. Key considerations include obtaining a business permit, setting up a website, and effective marketing strategies. The article highlights the potential profitability and challenges of dropshipping, advising on product selection, market research, and customer acquisition.

Black Friday falls on November 24 this year, with Cyber Monday on November 27. Key tips for a successful Black Friday include planning in advance, setting a budget, and being cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Mark Coan of Moneysherpa.ie advises against overspending and suggests checking other retailers for price comparisons. Switcher.ie warns of potential scams and recommends using secure payment methods. Engaging with brands beforehand for additional discounts and staying focused on a pre-made list can help avoid unnecessary purchases.

The use of cash in Ireland is declining, with a sharp increase in cashless payments and a survey by Royal London Ireland revealing that one in five people never carry cash. Despite this trend, cash remains important for many, especially for small daily transactions, service payments, and tipping. The Department of Finance has suggested legislation to protect access to cash, and the Credit Union Development Association (CUDA) acknowledges the need for cash to ensure financial inclusion, particularly for the elderly and those not using the internet. The majority of Irish people believe the Government and the Central Bank should guarantee local access to cash.

The article explores the potential cost savings of using air fryers and boiling water taps in the kitchen. Air fryers, which range in price from €50 to €800, are highlighted for their energy efficiency compared to traditional ovens, with claims of up to 75% savings on energy bills. Boiling water taps, though more expensive, offer convenience but uncertain long-term savings compared to kettles. The article emphasizes the importance of researching energy consumption when purchasing appliances, noting that modern devices are generally more efficient. Expert opinions from Energia, Aluminium Windows and Doors, and Bonkers.ie provide insights into energy usage and savings.

The article evaluates Budget 2024, highlighting its favorable aspects for families, particularly mothers. Key measures include a double child benefit payment, extended benefits for 18-year-olds in full-time education, postponed excise hikes on petrol and diesel, additional energy credits, and extended reduced VAT rates for gas and electricity. Income tax and USC rate cuts are expected to increase take-home pay. Childcare fees are set to be reduced by 25% by September 2024, though concerns remain about the availability of childcare services. Free school books are extended to Junior Cert, college fees are reduced, and additional SNAs are announced. New mums will receive nine weeks of Parents Benefit payment from August next year. Various tax credits and lump sum payments for carers and working families are also increased. Overall, the budget is seen as beneficial for mothers, with more financial support and no increase in alcohol prices.

Up to 481,000 people in Ireland overpaid taxes last year, amounting to €313 million. Taxback.com and Bonkers.ie highlight the lack of awareness around tax refunds and eligibility. Robert White of White & Co Accountants and Marian Ryan of Taxback.com provide insights into various tax credits, including medical expenses, mortgage interest relief, renters' tax credit, and more. The article emphasizes the importance of claiming these credits to potentially receive significant refunds, especially in the context of rising living costs.

Dunnes Stores has shortened the validity period of their popular €10-off-€50 voucher scheme from 14 days to 10 days, potentially impacting shoppers who miss grocery trips due to holidays or other events. Despite this, Dunnes is running a 'Big Christmas Giveaway' for Value Club card users. Other supermarkets like Tesco, SuperValu, Lidl, and Marks & Spencer also offer various loyalty schemes, each with unique benefits and incentives. The Consumer Association of Ireland criticizes Dunnes' changes, suggesting they undervalue customer loyalty and data. Loyalty schemes are widespread in Ireland, with nearly three-quarters of shoppers participating, though they primarily serve to gather consumer data and encourage repeat business.

Sunway, a major travel agency, reports high demand for trips to Lapland, with 2023 trips sold out and 2024 sales already strong. CEO Mary Denton attributes this to post-COVID savings. Despite high costs, Sunway offers payment plans. Blogger Corrina Stone, who runs the Facebook group 'Lapland on a Budget,' shares tips for DIY trips, highlighting cheaper alternatives like direct flights from Dublin to Rovaniemi with Ryanair. She emphasizes the importance of early booking, flexible accommodation policies, and thorough research to save money.

The cost of visiting Santa has significantly increased, with some families paying over €100 for the experience. The Consumer Association of Ireland's chief executive, Dermott Jewell, criticizes these costs as unfair and unnecessary, especially for adult entry fees. Sarah Dwyer, a mother from Cork, shares her shock at the high prices at the Marina Market. Prices vary by location, with some places charging more for photos and adult entry. Mark Coan from Moneysherpa.ie notes that the rising cost of living has affected even Santa visits, suggesting that writing a Christmas list can be a magical and cost-effective alternative.

Smokers face significantly higher life assurance premiums compared to non-smokers, with potential savings of over €68,000 for non-smokers over a 25-year policy. Vaping and casual smoking are classified as smoking by insurers, impacting premiums. Ex-smokers can reduce their premiums after twelve months of abstinence from nicotine products. Recent government measures, including increased cigarette prices, have contributed to a reduction in smoking rates in Ireland.

Ticketmaster, along with its parent company Live Nation Entertainment, holds a dominant position in the global ticket sales market, controlling around 70% of ticket sales. This monopoly has led to widespread criticism from fans and artists alike, including Taylor Swift, due to high prices, poor customer service, and lack of transparency. The US Senate is investigating Ticketmaster's market practices following issues with Taylor Swift ticket sales. Despite the challenges, experts suggest that significant changes in the ticketing industry are unlikely in the near future.

The article highlights the challenges new mothers face in accessing breastfeeding support in Ireland, criticizing the lack of investment in lactation consultants in maternity hospitals. Despite the HSE's efforts to increase the number of consultants, the support remains insufficient, especially during weekends. The text underscores the financial burden on mothers who resort to private consultants and calls for 24-hour access to lactation consultants in hospitals to better support breastfeeding mothers.

A survey by Ulster Bank reveals that children receive an average of €600 in gifts for their Communion, with some receiving over €1,000. Financial experts like John Lowe and Mark Coan advise giving modest amounts, around €10 to €20, to avoid setting unrealistic expectations. Parents like Niamh Smith and Karen Burke share their experiences, emphasizing the importance of financial education for children. Ursula Collins from the South Munster Money and Budgeting Service highlights the need for early financial literacy education.

Research by the American Association of Wine Economists debunks the theory that the second cheapest bottle of wine on a menu is the worst value, finding that mid-range wines have higher markups. The study, conducted by Professors David de Meza and Vikram Pathania, analyzed 470 wine menus from 235 London restaurants. It revealed that restaurant wine markups are generally three times retail prices, with red wines averaging £42 per bottle and white wines £30. The article also discusses the high excise duties and VAT on wine in Ireland, contributing to higher prices compared to other countries. Experts like Mark Coan and John Lowe offer practical advice on choosing and investing in wine.

The article discusses the potential end of cheap flights due to rising fuel costs, increased competition, and climate policies. Ryanair's Michael O'Leary and Easyjet's Johan Lundgren highlight fare increases, while experts like Mark Coan and John Lowe offer advice on finding affordable flights. The impact of post-pandemic travel demand, regulatory challenges, and the importance of booking early are also emphasized.

Aspen Grove has appointed Mike McAuliffe as the new CEO, succeeding Seán Ryan who will become Executive Chair effective November 6, 2023. McAuliffe, previously the Chief Operating Officer, has been instrumental in developing Aspen Grove’s enterprise digitisation solutions. Both McAuliffe and Ryan expressed optimism about the company's future, highlighting the platform's potential for accelerated growth and innovation in mortgage servicing and other industries. Aspen Grove operates in Tralee, County Kerry, and the US, offering solutions that automate and manage business processes across the supply chain.

Green mortgages offer some of the cheapest rates for energy-efficient homes, with eligibility extending to existing mortgage holders and switchers. However, they may exclude cashback offers and require fixed rates. Insurance discounts are available for energy-efficient homes and electric cars, providing additional savings. Green investments, while beneficial, require caution against greenwashing. Diversified investments are recommended for consistent returns. Credit unions, banks, and An Post offer green loans for home energy upgrades, often at lower rates.

Green mortgages, available for energy-efficient homes, offer some of the cheapest rates but may exclude cashback offers. Insurance discounts are available for energy-efficient homes and electric cars. Green investments are encouraged, but caution against greenwashing is advised. Diversified investments are recommended for consistent returns. Credit unions, banks, and An Post offer discounted green loans for home energy upgrades.

Aspen Grove has appointed Mike McAuliffe as the new CEO, succeeding Seán Ryan who will become Executive Chair. McAuliffe, previously the COO, has been instrumental in developing Aspen Grove's enterprise digitisation solutions. Both McAuliffe and Ryan expressed optimism about the company's future, highlighting the platform's potential for growth and innovation in the financial services industry and beyond.

Employees can draw inspiration from tennis players in their fight for equal pay. The Gender Pay Gap Act of 2021 mandates organizations with over 250 employees to report on their gender pay gap, a step towards pay parity. Ray McKenna from Lockton Ireland and Barry Whelan from Excel Recruitment offer advice on how women can proactively negotiate for fair pay. Key strategies include reassessing roles, highlighting contributions, considering employee benefits, and leveraging strong bargaining positions. Data-driven conversations and market research are essential for successful salary negotiations.

Experts suggest that overpaying on a mortgage can lead to significant savings on interest payments and can reduce the loan term, potentially leading to a mortgage-free retirement. Trevor Grant of the Association of Irish Mortgage Advisors and Joey Sheahan of MyMortgages.ie advise that while overpaying has benefits, homeowners should ensure they have an emergency fund before using savings to reduce their mortgage. Banks like AIB and Bank of Ireland offer overpayment features, allowing customers to make additional payments without early repayment charges. The article emphasizes the importance of considering individual financial circumstances before making decisions on overpayments.

Dermot Goode of Lockton and Mark Whelan of Bonkers.ie offer practical advice on saving money on health insurance in Ireland for 2024. Key tips include shopping around at each renewal, considering corporate plans for better value, not letting fear of change prevent switching, and splitting cover for family members based on individual needs. They emphasize the importance of reviewing and updating plans to avoid overpaying and highlight that the public health system in Ireland is not entirely free, with costs for hospital stays.

Many retirees are considering returning to work due to financial pressures and the rising cost of living. The article provides practical advice on navigating post-retirement employment, including understanding tax implications, avoiding age discrimination, and considering flexible or freelance work options. Experts highlight the importance of financial planning, understanding employment rights, and the potential benefits of returning to work, such as additional income, social interaction, and improved mental health.

The article provides five financial tips for women to enhance their financial stability and savings. It emphasizes the importance of women actively seeking promotions and board positions, developing financial resilience, improving financial knowledge, taking advantage of tax reliefs, and addressing the gender pension gap. Experts like Ray McKenna, Frank Conway, Mark Coan, and Karen O’Flaherty offer practical advice on these topics, highlighting the need for early pension contributions, understanding investment risks, and maximizing employer pension contributions.

The Irish Government has introduced a mortgage interest relief scheme to assist households affected by interest rate hikes, targeting around 208,000 eligible households. The relief is available to tracker and variable rate mortgage holders with outstanding balances between €80,000 and €500,000 at the end of 2022. Applicants must file a tax return through Revenue's online service and comply with Local Property Tax requirements. Experts highlight the ease of application but note potential challenges for those unfamiliar with filing tax returns. The relief is temporary and may not cover all affected homeowners.

Most burglaries are opportunistic, so securing your home by locking doors, setting alarms, and using timer-controlled lights can deter thieves. Visible Christmas gifts can attract burglars, so keep valuables out of sight. Ensure Christmas gifts are covered under home insurance and avoid posting holiday plans on social media. For fire safety, use LED lights, keep real trees hydrated, and ensure artificial trees and lights have CE safety marks. Paul Walsh of Peopl Insurance advises checking home insurance policies for coverage on fire hazards and avoiding second-hand Christmas lights unless professionally checked.

The article explores the varying amounts the tooth fairy should leave under children's pillows, with insights from Montessori teacher Sinéad Laffan, financial expert Frank Conway, and John Lowe of moneydoctors.ie. Laffan advises keeping it simple with consistent small amounts, while Conway suggests using the occasion to teach children about money and imagination. Lowe highlights the disparity in children's expectations due to differing family wealth and suggests a maximum threshold of €20, encouraging saving and financial education.

Understanding your payslip is crucial for managing your earnings, deductions, and pension contributions. Key elements include your PPS Number, gross and net pay, tax credits, PRSI contributions, Universal Social Charge, and PAYE system. PRSI classes determine your social welfare benefits and contribution rates. It's important to keep Revenue updated on personal circumstances to ensure correct tax allocation. Engaging with your employer is advised if discrepancies are suspected.

The article discusses the appropriate amount of money to put in a birthday card for significant birthdays, emphasizing that €50 is generally sufficient. It highlights the importance of thoughtful and personalized gifts over monetary value, especially during the cost of living crisis. Kel Galavan, author of 'Mindful Money,' advises focusing on making the birthday person feel loved through non-monetary gifts or experiences. The article also suggests pooling resources for a joint present and being honest about financial constraints when giving gifts.

Tipping in Ireland lacks strict guidelines, with €10 or 10% of the bill generally considered a good tip. While tipping is not obligatory, it is appreciated, especially in the hospitality industry where it supplements wages. The introduction of service charges in restaurants and the impact of credit card payments on tipping habits are discussed. Recent legislation ensures tips go directly to staff, with calls for further tax exemptions on tips to attract more workers to low-paid sectors.

Debs and grads parties have become significant social events, often leading to questions about appropriate gift-giving. Experts suggest modest financial gifts, typically between €10 to €20, are suitable, especially for friends and neighbors. For family members, a slightly higher amount may be appropriate due to rising costs. Financial experts like Mark Coan and Kevin Johnson emphasize the importance of using these gifts to teach financial responsibility. Johnson, CEO of the Credit Union Development Association, advises young people to save and budget their money, warning against the dangers of credit card debt.

First-time buyers in Ireland can now borrow up to four times their gross annual income, though a minimum 10% deposit is still required. Trevor Grant, chairman of the Association of Irish Mortgage Advisors, emphasizes the importance of saving early and cutting back on luxuries to afford a deposit. Rising interest rates may affect mortgage eligibility, making it crucial to save diligently. Moving to a commuter belt or neighboring county could be a cost-effective strategy. First-time buyers should also research potential areas and tidy up their finances before applying for a mortgage. State-backed schemes like Help-to-Buy and First Home are available for new homes, offering significant financial support.

Cash remains the most popular wedding gift in Ireland, with amounts typically ranging from €50 to €200 per guest, influenced by the giver's relationship to the couple and the wedding's formality. Experts like Jessica O’Sullivan, Sandra Looney, and Darragh Doyle emphasize the trend towards cash gifts, noting that thoughtful, personalized contributions or wedding registries are also appreciated. Despite the cost of living crisis, the focus should remain on celebrating the occasion rather than the monetary value of the gift.

The article provides detailed advice on car insurance add-ons, emphasizing the importance of reviewing different insurance providers and policies to compare coverage options. Jonathan Hehir, managing director of InsureMyCars.ie, highlights various add-ons such as driving someone else's car, windscreen cover, breakdown assistance, and no-claim bonus protection. He advises that the necessity of these add-ons depends on individual circumstances, budget, and risk tolerance. The article underscores the benefits and potential limitations of each add-on, encouraging consumers to carefully review their policies.

The article provides practical tips for attending weddings on a budget, emphasizing sustainability and cost-saving measures. It suggests renting or buying pre-loved outfits, DIY hair and makeup, booking accommodation early, and avoiding rounds of drinks. It also recommends offering skills or talents as gifts instead of purchasing physical items. The advice aims to help guests manage expenses while still enjoying the event.

The article discusses the increasing prevalence and sophistication of cybercrime, emphasizing the need for consumers to protect their data through measures like regular password changes and using security software. Michael Kavanagh from the Compliance Institute and Ronan Brennan from Delta Capita highlight the importance of consumer vigilance and the role of financial institutions in combating cybercrime. The article also addresses the issue of spam communications and the challenges older generations face in dealing with cyber threats.

Parents face significant financial challenges with back-to-school expenses, but several cost-saving measures can help. The newly implemented Government free book scheme provides some relief by offering school books on loan. Additional financial assistance is available through the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance and Tuition Fees Tax Relief. Experts like Marian Ryan and Kevin Johnson suggest practical tips such as saving early, utilizing second-hand uniform exchanges, and carpooling to reduce transport costs. Parents are encouraged to plan ahead and take advantage of available resources to ease the financial burden.

September is a peak month for job enquiries, and experts advise taking action if unhappy at work. Lockton Ireland's Ray McKenna and Indeed.com suggest reflecting on job satisfaction and considering internal transfers or skill development. Excel Recruitment's Barry Whelan emphasizes professional communication, timing, and focusing on career growth when considering a job change. It's advised to wait for a firm job offer before informing one's employer and to discuss career goals positively without criticizing current or former employers.

Financial experts provide advice on improving financial resilience and preparing for future expenses. Paul Walsh, CEO of Peopl Insurance, emphasizes the importance of building financial reserves and reducing stress through financial planning. A survey by Peopl Insurance reveals that nearly half of the Irish public would need credit to cover a sudden €3,000 bill. Mark Reilly of Royal London Ireland highlights the significance of early pension savings to ensure a comfortable retirement, while Michael Kavanagh, CEO of Compliance Ireland, suggests buying eco-friendly products and investing in sustainable options.

The article discusses the importance of choosing a career that is not only enjoyable but also offers a good salary and flexible working arrangements. Tom Curran from Lockton Ireland emphasizes the benefits of pursuing a career that aligns with one's interests and aptitude, while Barry Whelan of Excel Recruitment highlights the lucrative opportunities in STEM fields and finance. The Higher Education Authority survey indicates that tech graduates are well-paid, and the article suggests considering the overall employment package, including work pensions, health insurance, and work-from-home opportunities, when choosing an employer.

During summer, increased incidents such as barbecue fires, theft of outdoor equipment, and extreme weather events can lead to insurance claims. Paul Walsh, CEO of Peopl Insurance, and Jonathan Hehir, MD of insuremyhouse.ie and insuremycars.ie, advise on ensuring adequate home and travel insurance coverage. They highlight the importance of insuring homes for the correct amount, being aware of policy limitations on unoccupied homes, and checking travel insurance for strike coverage. They also stress the need to insure home contents properly and to comply with home insurance policy conditions, such as activating alarms, to avoid reduced payouts in case of claims.

Michael Kavanagh, CEO of the Compliance Institute, and Ronan Brennan of Delta Capita discuss the increasing prevalence and sophistication of cybercrime, emphasizing the need for consumer vigilance and the importance of security measures such as anti-virus software, regular password changes, and being cautious with personal information online. They highlight the intrusiveness of spam and the deceptive nature of scams that mimic legitimate communications from financial institutions. The article suggests that combating cybercrime requires efforts from legislators, service providers, financial institutions, and consumers themselves, with banks deploying technology to monitor for suspicious transactions and consumers having options to freeze cards through bank apps.

A third of Irish people would retire at 60 if they could afford it, according to a Royal London Ireland survey. Taxback.com's Marian Ryan and ITC's Glenn Gaughran discuss the financial considerations for Irish people retiring abroad, including living costs, pension accessibility, tax residency, and property ownership responsibilities. They emphasize the importance of understanding the tax implications of owning and renting property abroad, as well as the potential benefits of tax residency in the retirement country.

Teachers from various parts of Ireland shared their preferences for end-of-term gifts, with many favoring a 'no presents' policy or class collections for vouchers over individual gifts. Handmade cards, practical items like coffee vouchers, and personal touches such as art or cakes were highlighted as meaningful. The Irish National Teachers' Organisation (INTO) stated that teachers do not expect gifts, and it is up to individual schools to set their own policies. Schooldays.ie polls indicate that class contributions for vouchers are a popular choice. Some teachers expressed opposition to gift-giving due to the financial pressure on parents, while others appreciated the thought behind any gift, whether simple or extravagant.

Mortgage rates in Ireland are expected to rise in the medium term, with the European Central Bank likely to increase its main lending rate to 4% by June and possibly 4.25% by the end of summer. This will affect tracker mortgage customers and prospective first-time buyers, with average rates around 5.5%. Experts from Bonkers.ie, MyMortgages.ie, the Association of Irish Mortgage Advisors, Delta Capita, and doddle.ie provide insights on the current situation and future expectations. Interest rates are predicted to peak at 4.75 to 5 percent by late 2023 and may start to decrease by the end of Q1 2024. The historically low ECB rates are unlikely to return, with a new norm of higher rates established. Despite the increases, Ireland's mortgage rates remain among the lowest in the Eurozone due to banks being slow to pass on ECB rate hikes.

Hosting a summer BBQ on a budget can be achieved by bringing alcohol or creative gifts like insect repellent, making homemade dishes using affordable ingredients, and opting for potluck-style gatherings. Seasonal fruits and vegetables offer budget-friendly options, and keeping the guest list small can help manage costs. Affordable cuts of meat and vegetarian options can be marinated for flavor, and themes can control costs while adding excitement. Drinks like infused water or homemade lemonade can reduce costs and waste. Music and budget-friendly games can create memorable moments, emphasizing that time spent is more valuable than money spent.

Divorce can be financially burdensome, with costs ranging from €2,000 to €20,000 in Ireland. Recent changes by the Central Bank now allow divorced or separated individuals to be considered first-time buyers, enabling them to borrow more for mortgages. Experts like Joey Sheehan from MyMortgages.ie and Glenn Gaughran from the Independent Trustee Company emphasize the importance of considering all financial aspects, including pensions and tax implications. Marian Ryan from taxback.com advises notifying Revenue of any changes to ensure correct tax adjustments. Maintenance payments also have varying tax implications depending on their nature.