Questions are already being raised about whether or not government will issue a second cost of living cheque to residents in the year ahead.

Those aged 18 and older who earned less than $100,000 were entitled to the $500 benefit to help cope with the rising costs of living.

The price of essentials such as food and housing have not seen a decline, meaning the benefit cheque was a short term solution to a long term problem.

Finance Minister Siobhan Coady says they’ve done a number of things this year to help combat rising costs for those feeling the pinch.

She says they’ve increased the income supplement and seniors benefit by 10 per cent to provide long-term relief. They’re also bringing the cost of childcare down to $10 a day.

When it comes to whether or not government will cut any more cost of living cheques, Coady says that’s still up in the air.

She says the ability to provide such a benefit depends on how things are looking financially in the year ahead. She assures that they will do what they can to help people.