The price hike in the national lotto is being criticised by opposition parties.

From next month, the minimum cost of playing will go from €3 to €4 for two lines.

And it will also be harder to win, as the amount of numbers in the draw is going up from 45 to 47.

Premier Lotteries Ireland told the Irish Times that the changes were long overdue which would result in bigger jackpots, better sales for retailers and more money for good causes.

Fianna Fáil is pointing the finger at the government and its decision to privatise the service.

Their spokesperson on public expenditure, Seán Fleming, says he expects more price hikes in the future.