Church organisation Caritas has called for a new, more realistic definition of the national poverty line.

In a memo to political parties, Caritas said the definition should be widened to include income and required resources to buy the essentials for a family.

Families should be guaranteed legal, economic and social protection and those in a precarious situation should be given access to adequate accommodation, against payment that reflected their finances.

Almost one year ago, Caritas called for the minimum wage to be raised to €180 per week so vulnerable families could achieve “a minimum decent” standard of living.

It published an in-depth study that established the minimum budget necessary for three low-income household categories to enjoy a decent life.

In its memo, Caritas said poverty “is inherited”.

“We should not let this social malaise continue to grow and affect more families becauseit has very serious consequences for the individual, family and for society.”

Concrete measures had to be taken so children from poor families, or at risk of poverty, which was 20 per cent of children, got special attention for more inclusive education and better training opportunities.

Eradicating poverty was everyone’s responsibility, Caritas said. However, the State had the duty to ensure each citizen reached his or her full development and had a decent standard of living.