Howlin: Irish history is entering a new era

We are entering a new era in Irish history, Public Expenditure Minister Brendan Howlin claimed as he announced a series of new funds for education, justice, job creation, and benefits.

The Labour minister also signalled that a moratorium on recruitment in the public sector would come to an end next year.

Announcing the spending elements of the budget in the Dáil, Mr Howlin said there was now flexibility in State spending to meet demands and investment in public services.