Giveaways and tax breaks: €6.4bn budget could be the last before a general election

Finance Minister Michael McGrath and Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe share a light-hearted moment as they arrive at Leinster House to deliver Budget 2024. Picture: Liam McBurney/PA

The Government has set out a ‘something for everyone’ package of tax changes, increased supports, and once-off payments in what could be its final budget splurge before a general election.

Budget 2024 has targeted the ‘squeezed middle’ with three €150 universal energy credits, substantial investment in childcare, the expansion of the free schoolbooks scheme, income tax reductions, and a crackdown on cigarettes.