Cork Penny Dinners says the requirement to 'stay at home' is forcing some families into further poverty

The Cork charity says some families are encountering additional difficulties due to the spread of the coronavirus.

Schools are shut and children are being taught online after a surge in COVID19 cases across the country, however Cork Penny Dinners say many children are in homes where parents don't have money to pay for heating and electricity all day, or don't have enough food to feed them all day.

The charity says demand for its service is at an all time high and the Government should increase the fuel allowance to ensure people aren't cold as well as hungry.

Speaking to RedFM News Catriona Twomey of Cork Penny Dinners says what they're seeing on the ground here in Cork is very worrying: