Online retail is a big threat to Ireland Inc

The Central Bank’s Philip Lane and fiscal watchdog Seamus Coffey have warned about the many risks facing the economy. They should add online shopping to the list, writes Kyran Fitzgerald

It is never great when the head of the Central Bank feels the need to appear on the airwaves to counsel caution ahead of the budget.

In a formal set-piece, Governor Philip Lane every year writes a letter to the finance minister to remind politicians of the need to curb their natural spending instincts.