A major security operation is underway in Co Sligo where the Cabinet is meeting.

Garda units including the helicopter and public order unit are operating around the grounds of Lissadell House - where ministers are meeting to begin the process of deciding the size of the next budget.

Also on the agenda are childcare costs and new laws giving adopted people the right to a birth cert.

The meeting is the first time the Cabinet has gathered outside Dublin since the coalition came to power in 2011, and the last before all parties go into general election mode after the summer recess.

Dozens of armed, mounted and public order gardaí are in place around Lissadell House which is now in lockdown.

The inter-departmental review on the cost of childcare will also be up for discussion - as well as early talks on the new Sexual Offences Bill.

Ministers have been bussed to the mansion, made famous by the poetry of WB Yeats.

The garda helicopter, armed detectives, the public order unit and mounted gardaí are all part of the operation.

Tánaiste Joan Burton says she is proud the Cabinet is meeting at the historic home.