Budget can 'balance books’, says Finance Minister

Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe has denied the Government is planning a “giveaway” budget which, while winning short-term support public support, could seriously damage the economy.

Mr Donohoe, who is also Public Expenditure Minister, made the comment despite his predecessor Michael Noonan recently criticising new Taoiseach Leo Varadkar for loosening debt repayment and spending plans.

Speaking on RTE Radio’s This Week, Mr Donohoe said the recovery is continuing and that it is his intention to ensure it can be felt in every household in the country.