Fianna Fáil's Timmy Dooley says reports of increased child benefit are "auction politics". It is speculated that the child benefit payment could be increased by €5 in the Budget this afternoon.
The Clare TD says the coalition is putting popularity ahead of economic recovery.
A €5 euro increase in child benefit, a partial restoration of the Christmas bonus scheme and changes to the entry level for the Universal Social Charge will form a major part of this afternoon's Budget.
#budget15: Follow our Budget liveblog here.
A large majority of pensioners will also be handed an extra €100 to cover the cost of water charges, as the Government offers a number of sweeteners to the 'grey vote'.
After considerable backlash over the introduction of water charges earlier this month, the Taoiseach has confirmed that the Budget will make water rates as “affordable and fair as possible” for all.
The total cost of Budget 2015, including tax measures and spending, is expected to be between €800m to €900m.
#budget15: Follow our Budget liveblog here.
