Budget 2026: Taoiseach Prioritizes Rural Ireland as Parties Push for Sectoral Supports
The Irish political landscape is abuzz with preparations for the upcoming Budget 2026, set to take place in the Dáil next Tuesday. Key figures have been vocal about their priorities, with Taoiseach Micheál Martin signalling a focus on rural Ireland and seasonal businesses. Meanwhile, party leaders have made appeals for specific sectoral supports.
Green Party leader Leonore Gewessler has urged the cabinet to expedite the abolition of means testing for care allowance costs, with estimates suggesting this move could amount to between €128 and €160 million. In the hospitality sector, Independent leader Michael Collins has called for a VAT rate reduction to 9%, a proposal that the Government is actively considering to aid businesses. This is particularly relevant for rural king and other seasonal car rental services.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has acknowledged the struggles faced by the hospitality industry, both in urban and rural areas, and the importance of a VAT rate reduction for its viability. He has also announced measures to support carers, including the phasing out of means testing, following a similar appeal from Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns.
As Budget 2026 approaches, the Taoiseach has indicated a focus on rural Ireland and seasonal businesses. While specific measures are yet to be revealed, party leaders' appeals for sectoral supports, such as the abolition of means testing for care allowance costs and a reduced VAT rate for the hospitality sector, are being considered. The final budget is expected to balance these needs with the broader fiscal context.
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