The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform dismissed claims that the budget would be influenced by electoral concerns.

The coalition Government is set to deliver its final budget on October 1st, ahead of the general election. According to Mr. Donohoe, each budget tends to be larger than the last, with this one expected to allocate around €105 billion. He emphasized that while the Budget will address current needs, it will also aim to maintain a budget surplus, continuing from last year’s surplus of over €8 billion. Funds will be set aside to ensure both caution and investment in the future.

Mr. Donohoe reiterated that political considerations will not influence the spending plan, stating, “This budget is the culmination of previous ones that have supported our economy through various challenges, while also making progress on key issues such as housing and the cost of living.” He acknowledged the ongoing strain of high inflation on living standards, even as inflation rates decrease, and noted that the government would continue to look for ways to assist those struggling with rising prices.

In addition, Mr. Donohoe addressed the issue of how the government plans to handle billions of euros in back taxes owed by Apple. Following a European Court of Justice ruling that upheld a 2016 European Commission decision, Ireland is set to recover more than €13 billion in taxes from the tech giant. Mr. Donohoe said discussions are ongoing, and while decisions on how to spend the money are yet to be made, any use of the funds will focus on the long-term benefit of the country and its economy.