Howlin hints at tax cuts in budget

Cabinet ministers have signalled tax cuts in the budget while pledging that a €200m black hole in the health budget will not hit essential services.

However, Fianna Fáil accused the Government of talking up tax cuts in the hope of “buying” support in next month’s local and European elections.

Public Expenditure Minister Brendan Howlin tried to play down concern the HSE may have a shortfall in targeted savings of some €200m.