Minister for Social Protection Joan Burton says there needs to be careful consideration as to how austerity is impacting on the economy. 

The Labour representative has welcomed yesterday’s comments by EU Commissioner Ollie Rehn which suggest that Europe will ease austerity in a bid to accelerate growth. 

Reports during the week suggested that Minister Burton would seek a reduction in the €450 million target for social welfare cutbacks in October’s budget. 

However, speaking today the Social Protection Minister said discussions on the matter have yet to take place. 

But she did say that there needs to be balance when implementing cuts: