Taoiseach Calls Budget Meeting 'Sobering'

On Monday, November 11th, 2024, Taoiseach Micheál Martin described a budget meeting held over the weekend with Tánaiste Micheál Martin and ministers Paschal Donohoe and Jack Chambers as 'sobering'.

The budget this year will not include a cost of living package, marking a departure from previous years as the EU awaits the final agreement on trade tariffs with the US.

Speaking from Tokyo during a trade mission, the Taoiseach emphasized the challenges ahead due to rising public expenditure and uncertain international trade outlook.

The meeting discussed the National Development Plan, budgetary matters, and the medium-term financial framework, highlighting the need for sustainable spending levels.

The Government remains committed to reducing student contribution fees at third level over time, despite challenges in mainstreaming commitments from the Programme for Government into the budget.

Regarding the US trade tariffs, the focus is on limiting damage in the face of uncertainty, with the EU acknowledging a changed environment.

Fianna Fáil's decision on running a candidate in the upcoming presidential election is pending, with a potential announcement expected closer to the end of summer.

According to the source: The Irish Independent.