Government deficit of €21bn forecast for this year

Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe, and Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Michael McGrath, have their hands full managing a tough financial situation. Picture Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie

A general government deficit of €21 billion is now being forecast for this year, but this is before any budget day decisions are factored in.

However, it will be higher if stricter lockdown restrictions in Level 4 or 5 of the Government's 'Living with Covid' plan are imposed before the New Year.