14 July 2023

Budget 2024

The Economic and Social Research Institute has suggested Ireland's economic growth will slow over the next year but says the economy is still 'very strong'.

The Central Statistics Office has stated that the annual inflation rate has reduced from 6.6% in May to 6.1% in June.

Meanwhile, in advance of the budget this October, the finance minister has hinted at an even bigger package than expected, saying there is scope for 'one-offs' in addition to the increased new spending and tax cuts.

Daniel Hodgson, FODO Ireland's head of policy and public affairs, said: "With a strong economy and an increased budget package, we hope the Department of Finance will look at the current issues in healthcare and provide the HSE with the resources it needs to ensure patients can access services when and where they need them.

"FODO will be submitting proposals for the Department of Finance to consider before the budget. The state needs to protect the nation's eye health and improve patient outcomes through investing in the services patients need. We need to support sustainable eye care services whether provided under the PRSI's treatment benefit scheme or through the HSE's COSS contract, and ensure equality of access, particularly for children."