Elaine Loughlin: Goodie bag budget is focused on short-term wins for the Government

Despite a €23.7bn surplus, we have failed to provide what should be basic universal services from housing to healthcare and childcare

Finance Minister Jack Chambers and Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe on budget day. Picture: Niall Carson/PA

The Government’s pre-election budget bonanza is less about putting money back in people’s pockets, and more about funding the myriad private services that the State has become reliant on.

Despite having a €23.7bn surplus, we have failed to provide what should be basic universal supports and services, from housing to healthcare and childcare.