Noticed you were advised to look into MIS. If one of you is employed (assuming you're married) also look into FIS. You can get this if one of you is working more than 19 hours a week. Could make up a portion of the shortfall and put your SFS in a better position. Allowances near bottom...
http://www.citizensinformation.ie/e...es_and_children/family_income_supplement.html
http://www.citizensinformation.ie/e...es_and_children/family_income_supplement.html