Jim Power: Summer economic statement sows confusion

The key message from the statement outlined an €8.3bn budget package for later in the year but, as in previous years, is likely to be exceeded

Last week, Jack Chambers, the finance minister,  and Paschal Donohoe, the public expenditure minister, published the summer economic statement which means budget season is in full swing. 

Budget season is now in full swing following the publication of the summer economic statement (SES), and from now until October 1 we are guaranteed analysis paralysis.

Every year it is the same and I always contemplate the nonsense of having this annual event that at the end of the day will not have any significant influence on our daily lives but sends media commentators and the political classes into a frenzy.