Burton Welcomes Suggestion Era Of Austerity Is Over

Burton welcomes suggestion era of austerity is over

The Social Protection Minister has welcomed suggestions that the era of austerity is over. But Joan Burton says it would be foolish to try and predict the shape of the next Budget, six months in advance. The ESRI says water charges alone will be enough to help Ireland meet its Budget targets for next year without any other spending cuts or tax hikes. Minister Burton says the signs are positive but says people should still be cautious. "As far as I'm concerned, this just makes - if you like - the recovery in Ireland much more planable" she said. "It doesn't mean of course that at this point we can forecast exactly what will be in the budget, but it certainly increase the room for manoeuvre significant - and in a positive way" she added.