BUDGET 2021

Saturday February 8 we got out to vote to elect the 33rd Dáil Éireann. It many seem like a lifetime ago, but today the government formed on 14 April, when Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Greens reached a coalition agreement, put together their first budget.

Much of what Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe lays before the Dáil today has been well flagged in the programme for government, but as with every other aspect of contemporary living the spectre of COVID-19 casts its shadow.

The government has already indicated that the overall budget package will be in the region of €20 billion, with €14.5bn of that already pre-committed to COVID-19 supports.

It's anticipated there will be no changes to income tax, USC or PRSI, and it is also expected that the main social welfare rates will not change.

Ministers have spoke of the compensation to be made to sectors that have to shut down completely due to Level 3 restrictions and a particular focus on the Entertainment sector. It is also mooted that commercial rates for some businesses will continue to be waived.

Health will take a large portion of the Budget day package. Additional spending of €4bn has been agreed including a reported €1.6b in funding for new measures such as beds and staff and €2bn for COVID measures.

It is also expected that a significant package of new funding for housing, including €500 million for social housing directly built by local authorities and approved housing bodies, will be announced.

As the day progresses The Anglo Celt will keep you up to date on the important Budget 2021 announcements.