Budget 2022

Half the population will have access to a free GP visit card or medical card under a major overhaul of health benefits to be announced in the Budget.

There will also be extra funding for TAMS, forestry and organics, as well as the new and enhanced suckler and sheep supports. A packet of 20 cigarettes will cost an extra 50c in a new excise increase to be announced by Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe tomorrow. A double payment of the child benefit has been agreed and will be paid before the end of the year. This Enterprise Ireland scheme will be aimed at companies involved in exporting and manufacturing. A separate €200m scheme will also be announced which will see businesses being able to avail of up to €2m in financial aid. There will be funding for 1,000 new gardaí to begin training in Templemore next year. The devices send electrical impulses to re-start the hear in cases of cardiac arrest. All households will receive a €600 electricity bill credit which will be paid in either two or three instalments. There is a lot still to be decided but here are some of the key measures agreed by the Coalition. The excise reductions on petrol and diesel will continue into the new year as will the Vat reduction on energy bills. The higher rate of tax at 40pc will apply only to earned income of over €40,000 under what will be one of the highlights of the budget. Renters are set to benefit from the re-introduction of a tax credit, totalling €1,000 for people renting accommodation.