Donohoe dampens hopes of cost-of-living giveaway budget

Cost-of-living budget measures may not go as far as many want as other demands must be factored into the €1.5bn available. Picture: Press Association

The finance minister has dialled down public expectations of a cost-of-living giveaway budget, warning that the measures must not become "part of the problem".

Cost-of-living budget measures may not go as far as many want as other demands, including the need to address hospital waiting lists; the housing crisis; and increases to public sector pay will also have to be factored into the €1.5bn available.