Noonan hints at less austerity in next Budget

Finance Minister Michael Noonan has hinted at some easing up on austerity next year, saying the full €2 billion planned in spending cuts and tax increases in October’s budget may not be needed.

He was speaking after the EU Commission warned the Government to stick to its plans in order to retain the confidence of the international markets.

Figures on the tax take this year, due to be published today, are “quite good,” the Minister said.