Varadkar says Ireland could avoid slipping into recession amid global uncertainty 

Tánaiste sounds a cautious note about energy prices, but suggests Irish economy could escape the worst of the global downturn

'We may even be able to balance the books this year,' said Leo Varadkar when quizzed by reporters as he officially opened the new red panda and snow leopard habitats at Dublin Zoo. Picture: Colin Keegan

The Government is confident that it can stave off a recession this year, Tánaiste Leo Varadkar has said.

Mr Varadkar has warned that the State will be put under extra financial pressure as a result of the spiralling cost of living and the Ukrainian humanitarian crisis.