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.

October 30, 2024
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