Budgetary watchdog expresses concern over Government deficit

Chairman of the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council Sebastian Barnes says summer economic statement leaves Government exposed to a rise in interest rates or other 'nasty surprises'

The Government's summer economic statement– launched this week by Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe – has been criticised as being too risky.

The chairman of the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, Sebastian Barnes, has expressed concern with the Government’s summer economic statement, saying it is taking more risk with its plans.

In terms of the fiscal framework, many aspects of the plan were in line with the advice given by the Fiscal Council, he said.