Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
David Malone, CEO of the Irish League of Credit Unions, and Irish Times journalist Jen Hogan join Ireland AM to discuss the growing financial pressure facing families ahead of the new school year.
Despite initiatives such as free school lunches and free school books, many parents continue to face significant costs for branded uniforms, digital devices, school trips and other essentials. The pair discuss the latest research on back-to-school spending, why many families are still forced into debt, and whether enough is being done to make school more affordable.
They also share practical advice for parents, including budgeting early, involving children in financial decisions, making use of second-hand uniform swap shops, and exploring savings plans and affordable loans through credit unions.
Broadcast on 14/07/2026
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Welcome to the official Ireland AM Channel! We are Ireland's biggest breakfast show live weekdays from 7am-10am & weekends from 9am-12pm on Virgin Media Play & Virgin Media One. Join us as we explore various news topics of interests while guests open up for interviews that cover a multitude of subjects such as politics, food and human interest!
#IrelandAM
David Malone, CEO of the Irish League of Credit Unions, and Irish Times journalist Jen Hogan join Ireland AM to discuss the growing financial pressure facing families ahead of the new school year.
Despite initiatives such as free school lunches and free school books, many parents continue to face significant costs for branded uniforms, digital devices, school trips and other essentials. The pair discuss the latest research on back-to-school spending, why many families are still forced into debt, and whether enough is being done to make school more affordable.
They also share practical advice for parents, including budgeting early, involving children in financial decisions, making use of second-hand uniform swap shops, and exploring savings plans and affordable loans through credit unions.
Broadcast on 14/07/2026
Subscribe to Ireland AM for more exclusive videos: bit.ly/4cZifj3
FOLLOW US:
facebook.com/IrelandAMVMTV
instagram.com/irelandamvmtv
tiktok.com/@irelandamvmtv
MORE ABOUT IRELAND AM:
Welcome to the official Ireland AM Channel! We are Ireland's biggest breakfast show live weekdays from 7am-10am & weekends from 9am-12pm on Virgin Media Play & Virgin Media One. Join us as we explore various news topics of interests while guests open up for interviews that cover a multitude of subjects such as politics, food and human interest!
#IrelandAM
