Michael McGrath, Fianna Fáil finance spokesperson, has told The Right Hook that the spring statement was “a political exercise,” and an attempt to put the economy in focus.

Mr McGrath questioned the government’s positivity around the economic situation, saying “The key issue for the country ... is what type of recovery is it going to be?”

Pointing to a bias towards cuts that would benefit the better off, Mr McGrath said the government have “focused the tax cuts primarily on those who pay the marginal rates of tax.”

Shane also spoke with Pearse Doherty, Sinn Féin finance spokesperson, rejected the accusation that his party was being unduly negative on the country’s economic situation.

“Nothing could be further from the truth,” Mr Doherty said.

“With respect, I’m not being negative, I’m just pointing out the facts ... Austerity hammered the economy and hammered the domestic economy.”

Mr Doherty also said the government “depend and lengthened” undue hardship on their own citizens with austerity policies.

Listen to the Right Hook interview with Pearse Doherty and Michael McGrath below