Taoiseach rules out second, means-tested rate of child benefit in budget

Speaking at the Ploughing Championships, Mr Harris has also refused to confirm a commitment made by Finance Minister Jack Chambers that energy credits would be included in next month's budget.

The Taoiseach has ruled out a second rate of child benefit within the lifetime of this Government, but is open to the idea in the future.

Last year, then taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the Government was considering introducing a means-tested second tier of child benefit, but said it would not be possible to implement in 2024.