Nicola Quinn: Was this a pro-business Budget?

To stay competitive, Ireland needs bold reforms that simplify tax and make it easier to do business

Michael Burke from Tipperary watching the Minister for Finance: Paschal Donohoe TD outlining Budget 2026 in the Dail, Leinster House, in Toners Pub. Photo: Sam Boal/Collins Photos

The introduction of tariffs and other global headwinds meant that Ministers Donohoe and Chambers faced an uncertain economic backdrop to Budget 2026. 

With only €1.3bn available for tax measures, hard choices had to be made. This Budget had a significant focus on the key issue of housing and infrastructure delivery. It is also noteworthy that Minister Donohoe referenced protecting and creating jobs repeatedly in his budget speech, highlighting the importance of high levels of employment to the success of our economy.