Finance Minister, Jack Chambers, has noted that in advance of a projected general election, the Finance Bill will be expedited. The regular timeline stretching to the end of November or start of December to complete all stages will not be applicable this time. Under normal circumstances, it would only be completed at the end of November or early December.
The amended schedule for the Finance Bill will be explained after consultations with party leaders. Chambers stressed the necessity for the complete implementation of all policies laid out in Budget 2025. Essential to these are the workers’ support mechanisms and cost of living adjustments.
He disclosed that the three party heads plan to meet this Monday night to deliberate a potential date for a general election. The dates being considered are either November 29th or December 6th. Once the date is confirmed, the completion and implementation of the Finance Bill will be tailored accordingly, prior to the dissolution of the Oireachtas.
Chambers, who is also the director of elections for Fianna Fáil, highlighted the party’s current ambition to expand its influence nationwide, focusing primarily on pertinent issues that have arisen over the past four and a half years. He mentioned the housing crisis as the most significant concern facing Irish households.
He stated that Fianna Fáil, during their tenure in government, addressed pervasive challenges in health and education. They prioritised improving public services and bolstering an enterprise economy that can drive employment growth and build future prosperity.
In conclusion, he expressed his admiration for the retiring minister, Heather Humphreys, stating her departure was a significant loss for Irish political landscape.
Responding to a question regarding the potential advantage Fianna Fáil might have due to the significant amount of retiring politicians from the Fine Gael, the speaker stated: “At the upcoming elections, Fianna Fáil is poised with a considerable degree of incumbency. Our strong team is strategically stationed across the nation, targeting additional constituencies. Our main focus is on advancing our unique standpoints.”
Mr Chambers commenced the groundwork of the 24-bedded individual room in-patient unit at St Francis Hospice, located in Raheny. The hospice has obtained planning approval and will require an investment of €29.8 million, of which €9.8 million will be sponsored by the Government. Work is expected to begin in the upcoming year and the goal is to have it fully operational by the close of 2026.