Facing a need to eliminate Covid-19 related spending by at least €8bn next year, but possibly more than €12bn, Mr McGrath has a huge job before him. Laying down a markerAfter bringing a memo to them on the state of the public finances Mr McGrath, according to sources, attempted to put some manners on his colleagues. Speaking to the Irish Examiner, Mr McGrath explains what he said: “The focus shouldn't always be on additionality when it comes to spending. “But that won't be entertained, and having that clear delineation between the two will prove to be very important,” Mr McGrath has made clear to his ministerial colleagues. There are about 40,000-odd students on the PUP who were working part time before they lost their job, and Mr McGrath knows there will be an issue there.

Source: Irish Examiner April 26, 2021 05:30 UTC