BUDGET 2026 LIVE: Social Welfare Increase, VAT Cut for Hospitality & College Fee Reduction

Budget 2026 is being unveiled live in the Dáil, with Paschal Donohoe and Jack Chambers outlining a leaner package than last year’s cost-of-living bonanza. There’ll be no changes to personal tax bands or universal energy credits, but the lower 9% VAT rate on gas and electricity will remain. Pensions and welfare payments will rise by €10 a week, while the double Christmas payment returns, excluding child benefit.