Opposition reacts cautiously to Bord Snip report

The two main opposition parties have reacted cautiously to yesterday's report from An Bord Snip Nua, which recommends €5.3bn worth of cuts in public spending.

Fine Gael finance spokesperson Richard Bruton has welcomed the document and says there is huge scope for improving efficiency and rationalising the operations of government.

However, he says the necessary savings must be made without targeting the most vulnerable people in society.

Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore, meanwhile, has also welcomed the publication of the proposed cuts, but says it would be foolish for the Government to think it can save money by making poor people even poorer.

He says cuts in social welfare rates would just end up costing the State in other areas.