Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 July 2026
48. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he expects the rate of expenditure growth to moderate in coming years; if the moderation will be greater on the current or capital side; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51004/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMulti-annual expenditure ceilings for the period 2025-2030 were set out in the Medium-Term Fiscal and Structural Plan agreed and published by Government in December 2025. The most up-to-date ceilings are set out in the Annual Progress Report published on the Department of Finance’s website.
The annual growth rate of total gross voted expenditure is set to moderate from 9.4 per cent seen between 2019 and 2024 to 6.1 per cent out to 2030. Over this period, capital expenditure will increase by an average of 7.1 percent, while current expenditure will increase by an average of 6 percent. This will see the total government expenditure ceiling increase from €109.9 billion in 2025 to €147.3 billion in 2030.
The strategy for the ceilings is comprised of three elements:
• Prioritisation of capital with ceilings agreed as part of the National Development Plan Review 2025 (NDP) to support investment in critical infrastructure in areas such as electricity, water, transport and housing;
• A moderation in the growth of current expenditure over the period; and
• The inclusion of contingency funding to provide flexibility.
Overall, the Plan reflects the Government’s commitment to improving living standards through sustained investment in public services and infrastructure, while maintaining a sound and sustainable fiscal position. A continued focus on delivery and value for money will be essential to ensure that this investment translates into tangible outcomes for citizens.
