2025-26 budget increase does not fully address Northern Ireland's current £129m funding shortfall.

Northern Ireland's Finance Minister, Caoimhe Archibald, has highlighted a £129 million funding shortfall for the current year, despite a £1.5 billion budget increase for 2025-26 aimed at supporting public services. The UK government's budget, the largest since devolution, includes significant funds for day-to-day spending and infrastructure but does not fully address ongoing financial challenges. Businesses are also facing rising costs from increased National Insurance and minimum wage, impacting the regional economy.