234. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Social Protection the cost of introducing a permanent double child benefit payment each August. [43787/24]

The estimated cost of a Double Child Benefit payment for 2024 is €185.7 million. This estimate would change on a yearly basis due to updates of recipient numbers.

This costing is based on the estimated average number of recipients and is subject to change in light of emerging trends and subsequent revision of the estimated number of recipients.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.