Minister Paschal Donohoe warns budget 2017 not going to be a giveaway

Public Expenditure and Reform Minister Paschal Donohoe has issued a stark warning to his cabinet colleagues that Budget 2017 will not be a giveaway as “protecting the economy” is now a priority.

Hopes of a budget splurge have been quashed after Mr Donohoe signalled Brexit and other world events would have “seismic consequences” on Ireland.

It is likely the Government will have to be more cautious in its spending in the upcoming budget to take account of Brexit and other international factors. Any increases to welfare payments or tax cuts could have to be curtailed.