BUDGET 2016: Opposition: Better-off were favoured

The main opposition parties have claimed the pre-election budget is “the final roll of the dice from a delusional Government intent on taking the short cut to popularity with a plan Charlie McCreevy would be proud of”.

Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin criticised Fine Gael and Labour’s €1.5bn tax cuts and benefit hikes giveaway, and alleged well-paid families will receive “10 times the gain” of the low-paid, as they warned the plan will ensure child poverty and homelessness are now Taoiseach Enda Kenny’s “badge of honour”.

Responding in the Dáil, Fianna Fáil finance spokesman Michael McGrath said despite the budget fanfare and “air of self-congratulation”, there is nothing to address growing societal problems.