Budget day 2015 is finally upon us. The measures likely to be introduced in today’s budget are expected to benefit most sectors of society.
Middle income workers will be better off after today, as a cut in the Universal Social Charge (USC) worth up to €1,000 is largely expected.
Also, provisions will be made for the hiring of thousands of nurses, doctors, gardaí and teachers.
A substantial Christmas bonus for social welfare recipients is also in the cards, as well as a €3 weekly pension hike and a €2.50 a week increase in the fuel allowance.
Further measures expected to be announced in today’s Budget include a €550-per-year tax credit for the self-employed and a 50c hike in the price of cigarettes. The price of a pint and spirits is not expected to rise.
Minister for Finance Michael Noonan will deliver his Budget speech in the Dáil chamber later on this afternoon.
