Gilmore backs Burton over higher PRSI

Debate over the budget was reignited as Eamon Gilmore defended a minister’s comments that employers should further help plug a €1.5bn hole in the social insurance fund.

The Labour leader stood over remarks by Joan Burton, the social protection minister, that PRSI contributions for the social insurance fund needed to be increased.

Ms Burton made the remarks at the Tom Johnson Summer School in Kilkenny on the weekend.